KUCHING – Innovation and integrity have been identified as two fundamental thrusts in strengthening land management in Sarawak, aligning with the state government’s aspiration to achieve developed and high-income status by 2030.
Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, described the two principles as “two wings” that elevate the Land and Survey Department (JTS) in supporting Sarawak’s development agenda.
“Innovation ensures that we always move forward with new creative and effective solutions, while integrity ensures that every step we take is based on the principles of honesty, fairness and trust,” he said.
His speech was delivered by Deputy Premier and Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development (MUDeNR) Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan during the closing ceremony of the Sarawak Land and Survey Innovation and Integrity Day 2025, held at a local hotel on Friday.
The Premier highlighted the achievements of the land survey programme under Section 6 of the Land Code, where more than 1.2 million hectares of land have been surveyed and over 900,000 hectares gazetted.
This, he said, demonstrated the JTS’s commitment to protecting the rights of the people, particularly in relation to Native Customary Rights (NCR) land, which is also being prioritised through the issuance of title deeds.
He further emphasised the importance of cultivating a culture of innovation among civil servants, while ensuring that such innovations are carried out with responsibility, accountability, clear documentation, and fair enforcement of laws.
“This balance is critical in maintaining public trust and ensuring fairness to all parties,” he noted.
