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SARAWAK’S wealth of natural resources can only be fully leveraged if the state’s people are bold in venturing into new fields, creating innovations, and applying knowledge intelligently and profitably, said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking at the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak (LBAS) 2025 dinner at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) in Kuala Lumpur, the Sarawak Premier stressed that intellectual strength is crucial to achieving this goal.
“Sarawakians must be courageous and have a vision to add value to our resources. Sarawak has all the resources — what we still lack is intellectual strength. Our students at universities must strengthen their knowledge so they can play a role in addressing global issues such as climate change,” he was quoted by The Borneo Post.
The event, attended by around 6,500 ‘Anak Sarawak,’ was graced by the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, and coincided with Wan Junaidi’s 79th birthday celebration.
Abang Johari emphasised that the younger generation’s enthusiasm for knowledge and innovation will be key drivers of Sarawak’s progress.
“If this spirit continues to flourish, Sarawak would not only play a significant role regionally but could also take its place globally in the emerging new economy,” he said.
He also highlighted the state government’s commitment to climate action through legislation regulating carbon emissions and carbon trading, which has increased state revenue and allowed for greater benefits to be delivered to the people.
As part of ongoing infrastructure development, Abang Johari announced plans for a highway linking Miri to Lawas via Marudi, Long Lama, Mulu, and Limbang, fully funded by state resources. He also outlined the One Water Grid project under Sarawak Water and the replacement of old pipes to ensure clean water access for villages and longhouses, with allocations exceeding RM1 billion.
“As our revenue increases, we give back to the people of Sarawak. Let us pray it continues to grow, so we can continue providing facilities, including for Sarawakians living in Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.
Abang Johari further called on Sarawakians to preserve unity and strengthen their knowledge to build a competitive generation.
“Preserve our unity and nurture wise Sarawakians so that Sarawak will shine as the star of Malaysia and the star of ASEAN,” he added.
The dinner was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof; Sarawak Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi; as well as Federal and State Cabinet Ministers and other distinguished guests. - October 26, 2025