KUCHING: The Sarawak 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) will be driven through ten high-level strategies, each designed to focus resources and partnerships on the areas of greatest impact.

According to Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030) will focus on accelerating delivery, deepening transformation, and empowering greater private-sector participation.

This is to ensure every initiative under the Post-COVID 19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030) delivers tangible outcomes, improving lives, creating quality jobs, and expanding opportunities for all Sarawakians.

"First, we will accelerate the clean energy transition by establishing an energy regulator, building the Sarawak Hydrogen Hub, and strengthening power generation, transmission, and storage capacity.

"Second, we will develop and attract strategic industries through strong partnerships, robust local supply chains, and SME capacity building. Strategic zones such as the Kuching Low-Carbon Hub, and Baram Renewable Energy Economic Zone will become engines of sustainable growth.," he said.

He unveiled these initiatives during the launch of the Sarawak 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030) at the Sarawak Economic Conference 2025 on Monday.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari added that Sarawak will increase investor confidence and private-sector participation by improving governance, streamlining regulations, and strengthening public-private partnership frameworks.

"Key infrastructure and utility policies will be reviewed to ensure consistency with our energy transition and sustainability goals," he added.

"Fourth, we will optimise land use for agriculture, industrial, and urban development, unlocking underutilised land for productive use while preserving environmental sustainability.

"Fifth, we will build a high-quality living environment and inclusive society by investing in regional medical hubs, family well- being programmes, and initiatives such as Sarawak Women@Work and the Sarawak Family First Initiative.

"Sixth, we will attract and retain talent through targeted incentives and programmes such as the Sarawak Employment Package (SPACK), Elevating the Educators, and Regional Youth Centres, ensuring that our youth and professionals have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the state’s progress."

The seventh initiative will see Sarawak enhancing safety, security, and disaster preparedness through technology-driven monitoring, resilient infrastructure, and improved local authority readiness.

"Eighth, we will engage in climate action, integrate ESG and advance the circular economy through the creation of a Sarawak Climate Change Centre and a Climate Finance Facility to support high-tech, sustainability-focused investments.

"Ninth, we will protect and sustainably manage natural resources by implementing nature-based carbon projects and strengthening community-based forest management.

"Tenth, we will create a strong and resilient Bumiputera business community, empowering entrepreneurs through access to finance, upskilling, and partnerships, ensuring that Bumiputera participation continues to grow alongside Sarawak’s expanding economy."

The Sarawak Premier said collectively, these strategies chart a clear path forward, ensuring Sarawak’s growth remains balanced, inclusive, and sustainable as we move toward 2030.- UKASnews