MIRI: The Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) is not just an economic development initiative, but has also become a symbol of the people's progress and a catalyst for a more prosperous future for Sarawak.
Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said SCORE is a manifestation of the success of close cooperation between the Sarawak and Federal governments in developing rural areas through an inclusive and people-centred development approach.
“With investments totaling RM125 billion and over 53,000 job opportunities created, SCORE is now a major catalyst for Sarawak’s economic growth.
“The Samalaju Industrial Park which started as a ‘greenfield’ is now rapidly developing as a high-tech heavy industry hub,” he said when speaking at the Bakti MADANI Miri 2025: Sarawak Maju Makmur Programme at the Miri Indoor Stadium on Saturday.
His text of speech was delivered by Sarawak’s Minister of Utility and Telecommunications, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi.
According to him, the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA) through three regional development agencies, the Highland Development Agency (HDA), the Northern Region Development Agency (NRDA) and the Ulu Rajang Development Agency (URDA) has received an allocation of RM4.5 billion to implement 247 infrastructure projects including the construction of roads, bridges and basic utilities in the interior.
“Mega projects such as the Miri-Marudi Road, the New Lawas Airport and access to the Baleh Hydroelectric Dam are among the proofs of our commitment to unlocking rural potential, in line with the PCDS 2030 goals,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the Sarawak Premier also announced several new initiatives for the well-being of the people, including free higher education starting 2026 at state-owned institutions, Bantuan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS) to more than 850,000 households and free healthcare facilities through the Senior Citizens Health Benefit (SCHB).
“We want the wealth of this region to be shared with the people. With state revenue exceeding RM14 billion in 2024, we have the capacity to continue to take care of the people’s welfare, especially the B40,” he said.
The three-day programme, which also featured career expos, Rahmah sales, people’s concerts and various community activities, saw the attendance of tens of thousands of visitors from all over Sarawak and neighboring countries such as Brunei Darussalam.
Meanwhile, a ceremony was also held to present the People’s Welfare Insurance Scheme (SIKR) 2.0 to eight next of kin of flood and landslide victims in Miri totaling RM10,500 each and food baskets totaling RM300.
Also present were Sarawak Transport Minister, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; Deputy Minister of Tourism, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Deputy Minister of Women and Children Development, Datuk Rosey Yunus; Deputy Minister of Community Wellbeing, Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam; Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department Sarawak (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala; Telang Usan Assemblyman, Dato Dennis Ngau, Sarawak Federal Secretary, Dato Ahmad Nadzri Mohd Hassan and Miri City Mayor, Adam Yii Siew Sang.
Also present were RECODA Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Bakti MADANI Miri 2025: Sarawak Maju Makmur Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) Programme Organiser, Datuk Ismawi Ismuni; Miri Division Resident, Galong Luang and other distinguished guests. - UKASnews
