SIBU – The Sarawakku Sayang (SKS) Programme for Sibu Division 2026 was officially launched on Saturday, 11 July 2026, by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr.) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg. The event drew a strong response, recording 22,000 visitors by midday, reflecting the government’s commitment to bringing services closer to the people through a one-stop delivery concept.
The Premier highlighted the importance of the programme in strengthening ties between the government and the community. He noted that the SKS initiative provides direct access to various services, ensuring that citizens benefit from streamlined support in areas ranging from welfare to infrastructure.
During his address, the Premier expressed appreciation to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, whom he described as the “Bridge Minister” for his pivotal role in driving Sarawak’s infrastructure development. He emphasised that Uggah’s leadership has been instrumental in the construction of strategic bridges that connect communities and stimulate economic growth across the state.
The Premier also praised the expertise of Sarawak’s engineers, stating that their skills have been crucial in delivering high-impact projects. He congratulated local engineers for their achievements, noting that their work demonstrates Sarawak’s ability to meet international standards in complex infrastructure development.
Among the projects highlighted were the Muara Lassa Bridge and the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge, both recognised as two of the longest cross-river bridges in Malaysia. The Premier remarked that these structures serve as proof of Sarawak engineers’ world-class capabilities, showcasing their ability to design and implement projects that meet global benchmarks.
The opening ceremony was attended by Sarawak Director of Public Works, Datu Adj. Prof. Ir. Ts. Gs. Br. PMr. QPr. Dr. Cassidy Anak Morris, alongside senior officials and community leaders. Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration between government agencies, engineers, and local communities in ensuring the success of infrastructure initiatives.
The SKS programme has been widely regarded as a platform for delivering essential services in a more accessible manner. By centralising support under one initiative, the government aims to reduce barriers for citizens seeking assistance, while also promoting transparency and efficiency.
Community members attending the event expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage directly with government representatives and access services in a single location. Many noted that the programme reflects the government’s responsiveness to public needs, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where access to services can be limited.
Observers pointed out that the SKS programme also serves as a showcase of Sarawak’s development priorities, with a strong emphasis on infrastructure, welfare, and community empowerment. The Premier’s remarks on bridge construction highlighted how physical connectivity is directly linked to economic opportunities, enabling smoother trade, travel, and social interaction across the state.
The success of the opening in Sibu is expected to set the tone for future SKS programmes across other divisions. With thousands of visitors attending, the initiative demonstrated strong public interest and reinforced the government’s vision of inclusive development.
As Sarawak continues to pursue ambitious infrastructure projects, the Premier’s recognition of local engineers and the Deputy Premier’s leadership in bridge construction underscored the state’s confidence in its own talent. The SKS programme, meanwhile, remains a vital tool in ensuring that development benefits reach citizens directly, strengthening both community ties and public trust.
