Kuching: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced an increase in Sarawak's interim special grant to RM1.5 billion, up from RM600 million previously, effective this year. He stated that the Federal Government will continue negotiations with the Sabah and Sarawak state governments to finalize a sustainable formula for determining the annual Special Grant rate.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar remarked on the previous increase from RM600 million to RM1.5 billion for Sabah, emphasizing the spirit of solidarity, friendship, and Malaysian unity as the reason for the new grant for Sarawak. The announcement was made during the national-level Malaysia Day 2026 celebrations at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), attended by the Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sarawak, Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

Addressing issues within the Malaysian federation, Anwar expressed confidence that there were no insurmountable problems, highlighting the successful implementation of various projects and programs benefiting the populace. He expressed gratitude for the cooperative spirit within the federation that has facilitated these achievements.

Furthermore, Anwar called for collaboration between the national oil and gas company Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) to further national development. He urged both entities to respect and recognize state and federal rights and laws, emphasizing the need to expedite and finalize the commercial agreement between them, insisting that there is no reason for delay.