SARAWAK is poised to undergo another year marked by strong economic prosperity, inclusive social development, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.
As the final curtain descends upon the stage of 2023, Sarawak stands at the crossroads of achievement and anticipation, guided by the steadfast leadership of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), said Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
The Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Minister said in 2023, Sarawak celebrated a triumph in fiscal prudence with a surplus budget of RM12.4 billion, coupled with a RM5.8 billion federal government development budget for 2024.
With that, she said Sarawakians were geared to experience another year of robust economic prosperity, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability.
“My aspirations for Sarawakians in the coming year are to continually meet the needs of future generations; systematic participation by young people in decision-making for more child-friendly initiatives; better social protection and safety nets; multidimensional alleviation of poverty; greater connectivity; and enhanced citizens’ social wellbeing,” she said when contacted.
Fatimah, who is the Dalat assemblywoman, added, “Let us continue to foster a greater sense of connection by allowing different generations and groups to come together, learn from one another, form new friendships, and improve communities by combatting negative stereotypes and ageism.”
From groundbreaking research on child wellbeing to the construction of specialised centres, she assured that the roadmap for 2024 for her ministry signalled a proactive approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by different segments of the population.
“In 2024, my ministry will be implementing various social support and intervention referral research, services and facilities to support continual social inclusivity and enhance community wellbeing.
“They include research on child wellbeing, child social protection, and preparation for ageing in Sarawak; the construction of a Community Social Support Centre in Sibu and Lawas; the construction of a Special Needs Community Centre in Samarahan; setting up a One Stop Early Intervention Centre in Miri; and additional benefits for Kenyalang Gold Card Holders,” she said.
Despite the global challenges to solidarity and unity in 2023, Fatimah hoped Sarawak would continue to enjoy social harmony through greater unity in diversity, inclusivity and intergenerational cohesion activities to sustain community wellbeing next year.
