KUCHING: The Sarawak Government continues to move forward with the implementation of mega development projects guided by robust and strategic financial planning.
Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said despite pessimistic views from some parties regarding Sarawak's ability to implement large-scale projects, the Sarawak Government has carried out thorough planning before embarking on any development initiative.
"The Sarawak Government knows what is being done. Before launching any project, we have made careful calculations, including in terms of infrastructure, financing and manpower,” he said when speaking at the Affin Bank Aidilfitri Celebration at a leading hotel here, on Sunday.
The Sarawak Premier added that in the first five years, the focus will be on building basic infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and increasing water and power supply to rural areas.
He explained that all these projects have been financed using the state’s own funds with expenditure totalling RM36 billion to date.
Adding on, he said Sarawak’s increasing revenue has enabled the state to confidently make strategic investments such as in Affin Bank, while strengthening its financial standing through the establishment of a sovereign wealth fund which now exceeds RM8 billion.
Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari further explained that all mega projects such as the development of a deep-sea port, a new international airport, as well as gas and hydrogen-based industries are planned by taking into account long implementation periods, lead times, and the simultaneous need to develop local manpower.
“These mega projects require seven to 10 years to be fully implemented. Therefore, we have prepared long-term financial plans, including repayment plans based on the amortisation system, to ensure Sarawak’s economic stability,” he added.
Meanwhile, he urged Sarawakians to remain optimistic about the state’s future and not be influenced by pessimistic external views.
“The Sarawak Government will not launch any project without considering the entire economic ecosystem, including infrastructure, financing, manpower and future growth,” he said.
Also present were Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Economic Planning and Development), Dato Sri Dr. Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, Chairman of Affin Bank Berhad, Dato' Agil Natt, Chairman of Affin Islamic Bank Berhad, Musa Abdul Malek, and other guests. -UKASnews
