KUCHING: As the new year approaches, Sarawak is set to welcome 2025 with great confidence, bringing hopes and aspirations of becoming a prosperous, thriving, and inclusive state.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, outlined the state’s direction for the upcoming year, highlighting strategic projects that are poised to transform Sarawak's economic and social landscape.

Among the high-impact projects announced are the deep-sea port and the new international airport in Kuching, both expected to be key catalysts in positioning Sarawak as a regional trade and logistics hub, significantly boosting economic opportunities and investment potential.

"Sarawak is no longer just focusing on basic development but is moving towards advanced infrastructure, which will strengthen our global standing," he said in his New Year’s message on Tuesday.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari also noted that 2025 would see accelerated development in the modern agricultural sector through the use of smart technologies.

In addition, the Sarawak Premier announced that the government is making preparations to implement free higher education by 2026, an initiative expected to have a profound impact on Sarawak’s younger generation.

The Sarawak Premier also revealed plans for a mid-term review of the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which will assess the progress of ongoing programs, including clean water supply projects, improved internet connectivity, and social welfare initiatives.

"We are committed to ensuring that every Sarawakian, regardless of background, religion, or ethnicity, can benefit from this development," he stated.

Concluding his message, he extended his New Year’s greetings to the people of Sarawak, wishing them happiness, blessings, and success in the coming year.

"Let us work together to achieve the Sarawak we dream of," he added.-UKASnews