KUCHING: Sarawak is on track this year to surpass the RM12 billion revenue recorded in 2022.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this could be seen by the increase in the state’s revenue until June.
According to him, the state’s revenue was already RM5 billion in the first quarter of 2023.
Meanwhile in 2022, the state’s revenue was nearly RM12 billion compared to RM7.62 billion in 2021.
Recently, the World Bank recently acknowledged Sarawak as a high-income state, with a gross national income (GNI) per capita of more than USD13,205 (RM61,500).
New Sarawak Tribune spoke to several members of the public to share their thoughts on the matter.
AFIQAH ABDULLAH, 27
Balanced development is a must, especially for a big state like Sarawak. I am glad that the government is actively promoting and ensuring comprehensive progress across the state. I look forward to good news about the state.
SYUKRI MORNI,41
Should the state manage to surpass the RM12 billion revenue recorded in 2022, I hope that the government will provide free education fees for Sarawak children from kindergarten until secondary school. I also hope it will introduce digital economy concepts to students and expand the benefits of the Kenyalang Gold Card (KGC) to all supermarkets, malls and clinics. In terms of development, basic infrastructure such as roads must continue to be built and affordable housing should be available for the minority group.
NUR ATHEERAH ABU TALIB, 25
As a Sarawakian, I have high hopes that this improvement will yield positive returns for the people in terms of infrastructure and other facilities.
AMIR AIMAN HAMBLIE @ AWANG JAMALI, 25
With the rise in Sarawak’s income, it is believed that the people will reap various benefits in terms of development and other aspects. May Sarawak continue to progress and prosper for generations to come.
WELLIASANDRA GELAU,25
If indeed Sarawak’s revenue is improving, as a Sarawakian, I am happy. It means Sarawak is on the right economic path. I hope that the revenue, job opportunities and minimum wage will continue to increase for the sake of the state’s economic growth.
