KUCHING: The takeover of Bintulu Port, the investment in Sarawak’s own airline as well as acquiring a major stake in a commercial bank were described as the three platforms that will take Sarawak’s economy to the next level.
In stressing this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state government aspires to create a wholesome environment for progress and advancement in Sarawak with the three goals achieved this year.
Abang Johari said the state government has the right to reclaim Bintulu Port under Sarawak’s power according to the constitution.
“It is not only that (the power is with us), but Sarawak needs to comprehensively plan its port development that encompasses the whole of Sarawak including its resource-rich hinterland,” he said in his Chinese New Year message.
He added the takeover is similar to that of the Bakun Dam in 2017 which allowed Sarawak to control power tariffs to attract investments in energy-intensive industries especially in the Samalaju Industrial Zone near Bintulu.
In the same vein, Abang Johari said the government recognises the need to invest in creating air linkages between Sarawak and other regions to facilitate air travel which will boost business, investments and the local tourism sector.
“We aspire to have an airline to serve not only our rural areas but also to provide connectivity to selected destinations in the Asian region.
“Sarawak is situated on an island and the only way to bring people in is to fly them in. I hope that we can finalise this negotiation with the federal authorities soon and gain control of the airline within this year, God willing,” he said.
On acquiring a major stake in a commercial bank, the Premier said this will provide Sarawak a financial platform to boost the economy further through the development of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurship.
“Sarawak already has some stakes in this particular bank and we want to increase our stake. I am confident that we can conclude the negotiations soon.
“This is so that we can participate actively in the running of the bank and be able to serve Sarawak’s interest well,” he said.
