KUCHING – The Sarawak Economic Planning Unit (EPU) marked a significant leadership transition this week with a formal handing-over ceremony at Wisma Bapa Malaysia. The event saw Datu Lester Matthew officially pass the role of Director to Datu Ir. Awg Mohd Fadillah Awg Redzuan.
The occasion was witnessed by Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, Deputy Sarawak Secretary for Economic Planning and Development, who praised the contributions of Datu Lester during his tenure. He highlighted Lester’s role in strengthening policy coordination, advancing strategic planning, and supporting Sarawak’s long-term development agenda.
Datu Lester has been a prominent figure in shaping Sarawak’s economic strategies, particularly through initiatives such as the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) and the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 (SDB 2030). These frameworks aim to position Sarawak as a high-income state by 2030, with digitalisation and sustainability as key drivers of growth.
In his farewell remarks, Datu Lester expressed gratitude to his colleagues and acknowledged the support of Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah throughout his service. He commended the dedication of the EPU team, noting their commitment to ensuring Sarawak’s policies remain aligned with the Premier’s vision for inclusive and resilient development.
Meanwhile, the incoming director, Datu Ir. Awg Mohd Fadillah, previously known for his leadership in the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), pledged to continue steering EPU with integrity and professionalism. He emphasised his focus on sustainable and inclusive growth, ensuring that economic progress benefits both urban and rural communities across Sarawak.
“Integrity and professionalism will remain at the core of my leadership,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to advancing Sarawak’s economic agenda. His experience in overseeing rural infrastructure projects is expected to bring valuable insights into balancing urban expansion with rural development needs.
The ceremony underscored the importance of continuity in leadership within Sarawak’s central planning agency. The EPU, under the Department of the Premier of Sarawak, plays a pivotal role in formulating medium- and long-term socio-economic strategies. Its work is crucial in guiding the state towards achieving its aspiration of becoming a developed and high-income economy by 2030.
Observers note that the transition comes at a time when Sarawak is accelerating efforts in digitalisation, infrastructure modernisation, and sustainable resource management. With Lester’s groundwork and Fadillah’s new leadership, the EPU is expected to maintain momentum in driving policies that support innovation, resilience, and inclusivity.
The event at Wisma Bapa Malaysia symbolised not only a change in leadership but also a reaffirmation of Sarawak’s commitment to strategic planning and economic transformation.
