Transformative Journey in Sarawak

KUCHING: Nestled in the opulent surroundings of the Wisma Bapa administrative building, Premier Abang Johari Openg stands at the forefront of Sarawak's transformative journey. The sleek lounge exudes sophistication with its black and marble decor, boasting crystal chandeliers and plush sofas. Here, he details Sarawak’s ambitious projects and positions the state as an emerging economic titan within Malaysia, likening its potential to Bavaria in Germany.

Significant Strides in Development

In recent years, Sarawak has taken significant strides, regaining control over Bintulu Port from the federal government, acquiring the regional airline MASwings, and nearing completion of its controlling stake in Affin Bank. "These strategic moves are crucial for Sarawak’s progress," stated Abang Johari in an exclusive interview. His vision extends to offering free tertiary education for Sarawakians from state-owned universities by 2026, a plan he first proposed on his birthday in 2022.

Investing in Human Resources

The Premier emphasized, “A country’s development hinges on quality human resources, and education can lift people out of poverty.” Supporting this vision, he confirmed that Sarawak has emerged stronger since the formation of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition post-2018’s historic elections, which saw the former ruling coalition’s decline.

Grand Infrastructure Projects

Under his leadership, SSP has secured a supermajority in the legislative assembly, facilitating the pursuit of grand infrastructure projects expected to attract further investment. Anticipating the state’s revenue to surpass RM13.3 billion ($3.07 billion) in 2024, Sarawak is also establishing a sovereign wealth fund and planning a new international airport in Kuching.

Negotiations for Independence in Natural Resource Management

In a bold move for increased fiscal independence, Sarawak is negotiating with the national oil giant Petronas to reclaim its role as the sole trader of natural gas produced in the state, a primary demand that reflects local frustrations over unfulfilled rights promised in the 1963 Malaysia Agreement.

Rejecting Independence

Abang Johari’s ambitious plans do not signal a desire for independence, despite some activists voicing different opinions. "We appreciate the federal government's acknowledgment of our governance but seek to improve our own future under the Malaysian Federation," he explained.

Transformative Education Agenda

As part of Sarawak’s transformative education agenda, which aims to cost approximately RM625 million annually, only specific science and technical fields will receive free educational support. Critics suggest that such limitations indicate underlying financial issues; however, Abang Johari envisions critical fields such as aerospace, semiconductor technology, and green energy as pivotal for economic growth.

Green Energy Initiatives

On the energy front, Sarawak has achieved a carbon-negative status, largely attributed to its 70% hydroelectric power generation mix. The state is set to deploy floating solar panels across its dams to potentially supply 15 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2035. Expanding its influence regionally, Sarawak is already exporting power to Indonesia and is gearing up to establish significant electricity supply connections with Singapore.

Economic Collaboration with Indonesia

As Sarawak prepares to capitalize on the developments in Indonesia’s upcoming capital, Nusantara, the region is positioned for substantial economic collaboration, with plans for enhanced connectivity through a new international airport.

Transportation Developments

Despite the intrigue surrounding recent developments, the proposal for a trans-Borneo high-speed rail system was dismissed by the Premier, highlighting the need for multilateral discussions among the various countries involved.

A New Era for Sarawak

Since leaving the Barisan Nasional coalition in 2018, the momentum behind Sarawak's considerable infrastructure growth has become increasingly evident. With Abang Johari leading the charge, there’s a palpable air of optimism as Sarawak emerges as a significant contributor to Malaysia’s economy.

Conclusion: Vision for the Future

With a vision for the state that’s as grand as its ambitions, Premier Abang Johari’s Sarawak is poised on the brink of monumental development, firmly embedded within the Malaysian Federation yet with an unmistakable desire for greater self-sufficiency and growth.