KUCHING: Sarawak has the capability to implement projects such as building new schools and repairing dilapidated clinics in the state.
In stating this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the federal government should thus decentralise to empower the local authorities and in the case of Sarawak, to take charge of building schools and repair dilapidated clinics.
“In the state, we empower rural leaders through the establishment of nine development agencies, and each of these agencies receive RM1.5 billion to be used within three years before more funds are allocated.
“The projects are based on the grassroots need and wishes, with the decision-making by the local leaders. This is called decentralisation.
“So, we integrate from the bottom-up approach. That is why we say to Putrajaya, you must decentralise,” he said during the Land and Survey Department Sarawak Innovation and Integrity Day 2024 closing ceremony here Friday night (July 5).
Abang Johari, who is also Gedong assemblyman added that the state can manage projects like building schools and repairing dilapidated clinics provided the federal government also assists in providing funding.
“That is under your jurisdiction, under the Malaysian Constitution. Because if you can’t, then empower us in Sarawak, there will be no problem (in implementing the projects),” he said.
He said he had raised this matter with the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during a meeting in Samarahan.
“The Prime Minister said, ‘You (Sarawak) can use your own money’. I said, ‘Alright, we have some money’ (for the building of schools and repair of dilapidated clinics) and with the federal government to reimburse later,” he said.
Among those present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, and Land and Survey Department Sarawak director Awang Zamhari Awang Mahmood.
