SARAWAK’S impressive fiscal performance reflects the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government’s unwavering commitment to accelerating development and improving the lives of its people, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has said, stressing that it should not be perceived as boastful.
In his Christmas and New Year’s message, Abang Johari noted that the state’s revenue has increased 2.4 times over the past eight years, describing the financial growth as a “blessing” to be shared with all Sarawakians through the provision of infrastructure, essential services, and human resource development.
“GPS’ commitment towards development has not waned, as the 2026 Sarawak Budget, like all previous budgets, allocated about 60 to 70 per cent for development against 30 to 40 per cent for recurrent expenditure,” he said.
“Sarawak is expecting an estimated revenue of RM13.1 billion next year, and an expenditure of RM12.91 billion, therefore a surplus budget for 2026.
“We do not want to boast that our revenue and budget are big, but it reflects the GPS government’s commitment towards expediting development.”
Abang Johari expressed confidence that Sarawak is on track to achieve its vision of becoming a ‘STAR’ economy within ASEAN, underpinned by strategic long-term planning, unity, and the state’s ability to harness its natural and human resources.
“It is a tall order, but not impossible to realise because we have the strength and resources to be one, and Sarawak has continued to progress steadily and cohesively,” he said.
The Premier also highlighted the state’s expanding role in renewable and clean energy, including hydropower, green hydrogen, and solar energy, as well as its potential contribution to the proposed ASEAN Power Grid.
He drew attention to opportunities in sectors such as natural gas, carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), and the semiconductor industry, stressing that these areas were being developed in line with Sarawak’s long-term transformation plans.
“In the realm of natural gas, Sarawak is endowed with vast resources which would be used as feedstock for the petrochemical industry, including the construction of necessary infrastructure such as gas pipelines and terminals.
“With billions in potential investment, this is expected to further invigorate the Sarawak economy,” he said. “Sarawak is also fortunate that both its onshore and offshore geological structures present significant potential for carbon storage to support the CCUS initiative.
“This initiative is expected to create a new revenue stream for Sarawak’s economy.”
Abang Johari identified the semiconductor industry as another promising sector.
“Steps have been taken that will position Sarawak as a major player in the semiconductor ecosystem, focusing on compound chip design, research, and innovation,” he said, emphasising that the government’s approach to development remained balanced, prioritising social well-being and human capital alongside economic growth.
“We want progress that benefits the people, whether through better connectivity, access to basic amenities, or opportunities for education and skills development,” he added.
Extending his Christmas greetings to Christians across Sarawak, the Premier expressed hope that the festive season would bring peace, joy, and blessings to families and communities.
“Christmas, like other celebrations in Sarawak, is a time for togetherness and gratitude, and an opportunity to strengthen the bonds that unite us despite our differences in religion, race, and culture,” he said.
He described the ‘Segulai Sejalai’ spirit as a defining feature of Sarawak, noting that it continued to guide the state’s progress as a united and harmonious society.
“May we welcome 2026 with hope, unity, and a shared commitment to continue building a prosperous Sarawak,” he added. - December 25, 2025
