Sarawak: Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasized the need for ongoing federal support to fast-track comprehensive development in Sarawak, ensuring that its benefits reach all residents. He noted that despite significant achievements over the past 61 years, substantial economic and infrastructure development is still required. This progress, he stressed, depends on the strong collaboration between the Sarawak state administration and the federal government.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Abang Johari expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his support through the Malaysia MADANI initiative, which aligns with Sarawak's aspirations to achieve progress comparable to Peninsular Malaysia. His remarks were delivered during the officiating ceremony of the Bakti MADANI Programme (PBM) Miri 2025, with the speech being read by Sarawak Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi.
Abang Johari highlighted the commitment of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government to work closely with the Anwar-led MADANI government for the advancement of Sarawak and Malaysia as a whole. He emphasized that political and administrative cohesion is crucial to overcoming challenges and addressing issues that may impede development efforts.
The Bakti MADANI Programme (PBM) Miri 2025, a three-day event, exemplifies the collaborative spirit between the federal and Sarawak governments and underscores their shared commitment to providing services that directly benefit the populace. He noted that the theme "Sarawak Maju Makmur" aligns with the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) initiative, launched in 2008 under then-Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to develop rural areas, including Miri.
Abang Johari explained that economic corridors were established by the federal government to bridge regional development disparities in Malaysia, focusing on large-scale investments and economic activities supported by substantial infrastructure development. He stated that the Sarawak government is optimistic about achieving economic transformation through economic diversification and high-value industries.
He further mentioned that this year, SCORE has significantly contributed to Sarawak's economic growth, attracting RM125 billion in investments and creating over 53,000 job opportunities for the local population.