KUALA LUMPUR: The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg has shared about the latest developments on Sarawak's economic direction to Sarawakians participating in the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak (LBAS) 2024 programme.

According to him, various development initiatives are being implemented by the Sarawak government based on new methods to improve the welfare of its people, especially those who are abroad.

Among what was shared was the effort to increase the production of paddy and rice in order to achieve food security, in addition to emphasising the use of renewable energy and the green economy in the face of climate change issues.

"We are increasing the production of paddy and rice so that Sarawak does not depend on imported rice, because we have our own rice for the children of Sarawak. Although the investment is high, we have enough funds to help farmers in the countryside.

"We will also continue to develop infrastructure such as electricity and water supply including a new road from Miri to Marudi to Long Terawan in Mulu, which will open up rural areas including Lawas and Limbang," he said.

He said this while speaking at the 15th edition of the Anak Sarawak Dinner in conjunction with LBAS 2024 themed 'Empowering Sarawak's New Economy' at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), here on Saturday.

The ceremony was graced by the Sarawak Governor, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Dato' Sri Fadillah Yusof, Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri, Sarawak and Federal Deputy Ministers, Sarawak Members of Parliament, Speaker of the National Assembly Senator Dato Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and other dignitaries.

In the same speech, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari also emphasised on Sarawak's success in taking over the management of Bintulu Port, the importance of having its own aircraft to further strengthen Sarawak's position in the aviation sector and expand economic opportunities.

"Hopefully next year we will have our own airplane, which will facilitate travel from Sarawak to the peninsula with reasonable fares and bring tourists to Sarawak," he added.

Finally, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari hoped that the people of Sarawak will continue to unite and work together towards achieving greater success in various aspects, including economic, social and cultural development.

Earlier in his welcoming speech, the Minister of National Unity and Chairman of the LBAS 2024 Organising Committee, Dato' Sri Aaron Ago Dagang expressed his appreciation and gratitude to Sarawak Volunteers as the main organisers who worked hard to launch the program.

He said that more than 6,000 Sarawakians living in the peninsula had attended to liven up the atmosphere of the programm, which showed the spirit of unity and support for the development of the region. - UKASenews