KUCHING: Sarawak is committed to future investment, prioritising economic sustainability, technological advancement and social inclusivity.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that the state government will enhance the ease of doing business, focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) matters and provide better access to education and healthcare.
To secure the state’s future, the government has established the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund (SSWFF).
“We have provided an initial seed capital of RM8 billion and progressive annual allocations between RM400 million to RM600 million until 2034. All of this will be invested in relevant portfolios to grow and increase our savings,” Abang Johari said in a speech read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas at the Bursa Marketplace Fair Sarawak 2024 at Vivacity Megamall yesterday (Nov 9).
“Integrating advanced digital technologies will boost productivity, even in traditional sectors like agriculture, livestock, and food production. This will help build self-sufficiency and position the region as a clean food exporter by 2030,” he added.
Citing the Federal Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), Abang Johari noted that Sarawak had attracted RM4.2 billion in approved investments in the first quarter of this year and was poised to receive more green investments.
“This will drive jobs and opportunities for SMEs in Sarawak,” he said.
The Premier also stressed the importance of investing in the future to increase the median household income.
“Our focus remains on increasing the median household income of RM4,978, which is still below the national rate of RM6,338,” he said.
He urged Sarawakians to improve their financial literacy and invest in their future.
“Learning to invest is a way you can help build, capture, and enjoy more of the benefits from future economic growth,” he said.
Abang Johari also encouraged Sarawakians to adopt a disciplined approach to saving and investing.
“Over the years, the Sarawak government has learned to earn, save, and invest for the future. This is a discipline that every retail investor can build for themselves. I urge you to start today,” he added.
