PREMIER Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has tabled an expansionary Sarawak Budget ’25 of RM15.8 billion in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
He said the Budget proposes to increase the operating and development expenditures from RM13.6 billion in 2024 to RM15.8 billion next year, an increase of RM2.2 billion or 16 per cent.
“The Budget proposes a total ordinary expenditure of RM13.7 billion of which RM4.9 billion is for operating expenditure while RM8.8 billion is for appropriation to Development Fund Account.
“This appropriation is to top up the brought forward balance in the Development Fund Account to finance the 2025 Development Expenditure budgeted at RM10.9 billion.
“With the projected revenue of RM14.2 billion and total Ordinary Expenditure of RM13.7 billion, the Budget is expected to generate a surplus of RM486 million,” he said when tabling the second reading of the Sarawak Budget ’25 at the second meeting of the third session of the 19th DUN sitting.
Abang Johari, who is also the Finance and New Economy Minister, said the Budget provides an allocation of RM10.9 billion to fund development expenditures in Sarawak — the biggest development budget in the history of Sarawak.
“The 2025 State Budget will boost government spending that will further stimulate the state’s economic growth,” he said.
The Budget theme of ‘Together Building a Prosperous Future’ serves as the foundation of our fiscal strategy and embodies our steadfast commitment to the people of Sarawak, said Abang Johari.
He said the Budget is designed for an inclusive and prosperous Sarawak — where every rakyat has equitable access to opportunities and resources to thrive.
“The Budget has been meticulously assessed and formulated to ensure our state remains resilient, competitive, and adaptable amid global uncertainties.
“Building on past achievements and with a solid foundation, we are well prepared to navigate future challenges, safeguarding the well-being of the rakyat and bringing prosperity to all,” he said.
He added at its core, the Budget renews and reaffirms the Sarawak government’s commitment to champion the welfare of the rakyat through targeted measures aimed at alleviating the financial burdens of low and middle-income groups and continuing to implement vital people-centric programmes and projects.
“In a nutshell, the 2025 Budget is framed across eight strategic thrusts,” he said.
The eight strategic thrusts are:
- Transforming and diversifying sarawak economy;
- Positioning Sarawak as a major investment destination and promoting SME’s Development;
- Strengthening talent and educational development;
- Accelerating digital transformation and innovation;
- Enhancing people’s wellbeing and ensuring inclusive development;
- Promoting culture, sports and youth development;
- Enhancing environmental sustainability; and
- Strengthening public service delivery and capacity.
Abang Johari also said the Budget is centred towards achieving five goals:
- Building a prosperous and equitable society where no one will be left behind;
- Enhancing rakyat’s social wellbeing through public-centric initiatives;
- Strengthening government’s capacity and capability to deliver quality services;
- Enhancing state fiscal position towards financial sustainability; and
- Transforming Sarawak into a developed region and green hub.
