KUCHING: Sarawak aims to become a high-income developed state by 2030 through the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS).
The Acting Head of State, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar, praised Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s leadership.
“We owe a lot to the Premier and his team for their hard work. Their efforts ensure Sarawak is on track to achieve its 2030 goals,” Mohamad Asfia said in a Malaysia Day message yesterday.
He highlighted that under Abang Johari’s guidance, Sarawak has reached high-income status, as confirmed by the World Bank.
“This achievement is special, especially as we celebrate Malaysia Day,” he added.
A significant accomplishment was the 5 per cent State Sales Tax (SST) on oil and gas under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). This tax has funded crucial infrastructure projects in Sarawak, including roads, water, electricity, housing, and more.
“From this tax, we’ve collected RM13.3 billion since its start in January 2019,” he noted.
Discussing Malaysia’s history, Mohamad Asfia reminded that Malaysia originally had four regions: Sarawak, Sabah, Malaya, and Singapore. But, in 1965, Singapore left.
“In Sarawak, we see the strength in unity. Being part of a diverse Malaysia brings many development opportunities,” he said.
Furthermore, Mohamad Asfia appreciated that federal leaders, since the time of Sarawak’s late Chief Minister Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, have valued the MA63. This agreement gives more independence to Sarawak.
“To all in Sarawak, Happy Malaysia Day,” he said.
