MARUDI – The Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari, has officially opened the Baram Regatta 2026, using the occasion to outline a comprehensive vision for transforming the Baram region into a sustainable economic hub.
Speaking at the Dataran Marudi Waterfront, the state leader emphasised the importance of balancing modern infrastructure development with environmental conservation and low-carbon economic practices.
The Premier described the annual regatta as more than just a sporting event, highlighting its historical significance as a symbol of unity among Sarawak’s diverse communities. He noted that the gathering brings together people of various races and religions, united by a shared cultural heritage.
The choice of the newly developed Marudi Waterfront as the venue was cited as evidence of the tangible progress and modernisation taking place in the district.
“The Baram Regatta shows how multi-racial and multi-religious communities can move together in one direction despite having different cultural backgrounds,” he stated during his address at the opening ceremony.
This sentiment underscored the government’s commitment to social cohesion alongside economic advancement.
Addressing the broader economic landscape, Abang Johari pointed to the urgent need for Sarawak to adapt its development model in response to global climate change.
He advocated for a shift towards a sustainable economy driven by renewable energy, hydrogen industry development, and strict environmental conservation.
This strategy is bolstered by recent discoveries of gas resources in northern Sarawak, managed by local expertise through Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros), which he said proved the capability of Sarawakians to lead in the oil and gas sector.
The Premier also referenced Sarawak’s recognition by the World Bank as a high-income economy and its status as one of Malaysia’s top five economies.
However, he stressed that these macroeconomic indicators must translate into tangible improvements in household incomes for the people.
To achieve this, the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government is implementing free higher education initiatives aimed at producing skilled workers in emerging fields such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, digital technology, climate science, and the space industry, including the development of the state’s first nanosatellite.
A major focus of the announcement was the substantial investment in Baram’s infrastructure. The government has allocated approximately RM3.2 billion to construct a road network connecting Miri, Marudi, Long Terawan, Long Panai, and Long Lama.
This extensive project aims to open up the interior regions to new economic opportunities, stimulating sectors such as tourism and modern, export-oriented agriculture.
The improved connectivity is also expected to support the development of deep-sea ports capable of accommodating cruise ships, thereby boosting northern Sarawak’s appeal as a tourist destination.
Abang Johari urged the younger generation to equip themselves with knowledge in cutting-edge technologies, particularly in hydrogen energy, to seize future economic opportunities. He emphasized that human capital development is crucial for sustaining the state’s growth trajectory.
Following his speech, the Premier witnessed the final race of the Kayuh Tidak Terhad (Unlimited) category for the YAB Premier Sarawak (Open) Cup.
The boat Lakin Belaga 9 emerged as the champion, with Singgah Tagal 1 taking second place and Taming Sari N.76 securing third. Prizes were subsequently presented to the winners.
The visit also included the inauguration of the upgraded As-Salam Marudi Mosque, which replaces the previous structure that had served the community for nearly five decades.
Located strategically near Kampung Dagang with access via Jalan Nakoda Abang Mattassim, the new mosque stands as an important religious landmark for the Marudi district.
Several senior officials attended the event, including the Premier’s daughter, Puan Dayang Norjihan; Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Dr Penguang Anak Manggil, who chaired the main committee; Deputy Ministers Datuk Gerawat Gala and Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi; Baram Member of Parliament Dato Anyi Ngau; Telang Usan State Assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau; and Miri Division Resident Galong Anak Luang.
Their presence highlighted the collective governmental effort to drive regional development and community engagement in Baram.
