Premier likens Serian to smaller New Zealand

KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has likened Serian to a smaller version of New Zealand, with aims to achieve RM1.4 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030.
 
In stating this, he said that with the growing population in the Serian division, the goal of doing so is certainly a possible achievement.
 
“Currently, the division has recorded RM600 million of GDP growth, and our target by the year 2030 is to increase it to RM1.4 billion.
 
“To date, Serian’s growth is aligned with Sarawak’s growth between 6 and 8 per cent and God willing, we will be financially strong,” he said when officiating at the Serian Masterplan 2030 at the Serian Conference Centre (SCC) today (July 15).
 
Abang Johari also highlighted the potential of Tasik Danu, pinpointing its potential as a strong tourist attraction.
 
“I have something in mind for that particular lake. That Sarawak flag (at the lake) must fly, and we could use that as a development area where foreigners can invest and attract more visitors to the area,” he said.
 
Following that, Abang Johari expressed his confidence that Serian would be able to develop into a smaller version of New Zealand.
 
Meanwhile, Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Datuk Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who is the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA) chairman, said the agency is committed to developing the 10 locations from Tanjung Datu up to Balai Ringin in the surrounding Kuching and Serian divisions.
 
“This is in line with the strategic development of the Post-COVID Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) to ensure Sarawak continues to prosper and achieve a high-income State.
 
“Therefore, as the chairman of GKCDA, I will ensure to do my best and ensure the project developments are executed as planned,” he said.
 
Among those present were State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, State Secretary Datuk Seri Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, and Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier Department (Law, MA63, and State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali.