KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg hinted at delivering promising news for Sarawakians in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting next month.
He said the state’s impressive revenue, which reached RM13.3 billion last year, has made the government committed to giving back to the community.
“After COVID-19, our state revenue has continued to rise, from RM11.9 billion in 2022 to RM13.3 billion in 2023. Compared to prior years, our highest revenue before that was RM7.6 billion in 2021.
“Alhamdulillah, the numbers have doubled, and I am willing to give back to the people in terms of allocations for education, infrastructure, coastal roads, utilities (water and electricity), and more.
“We earned RM13.3 billion in 2023, so please pray for the announcement I will make next month for the year 2024, InsyaAllah, we will continue moving forward,” he said.
He said this during the 85th Anniversary Dinner of the Sarawak Malay National Association held at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) here last night (Oct 26).
Although Abang Johari did not specify if this good news relates to state revenue, he has previously hinted at continued revenue growth for this year.
Additionally, he also assured that allowances would be allocated for all Sarawakian students enrolled in higher education institutions nationwide, with further details to be presented in the Sarawak Budget 2025 on November 20.
He referred to his earlier announcement during the 2024 Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak programme in Kuala Lumpur, where he affirmed the Sarawak Government’s commitment to support Sarawakian students with financial allowance.
“We understand the rising cost of living, especially among students in Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Kedah, and even in Sarawak.
“Sometimes, it’s difficult even to buy mee maggi (instant noodles) to fill their stomachs at night while studying.
“All of this requires money. Money can be earned as long as we have knowledge. If we have knowledge, together under the concept of social inclusivity, we can continue to develop in peace and prosperity,” he added.
This initiative, he added, will help sustain economic growth into the future.
