KUCHING – Local Authority Councillors across Sarawak have been directed to adopt a broader, more innovative, and proactive mindset to advance sustainable urban development.
The call was made by Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg.
He stated that this shift in thinking is crucial for positioning councillors as primary implementers of the state’s sustainable development agenda. Their role is seen as integral to translating high-level policies into tangible local outcomes.
The Premier expressed his hope that councillors would contribute significantly to the state’s ongoing reforms.
He specifically emphasised the development of sustainable cities aligned with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He was officiating at the 2025 Councillors’ Seminar, which carried the theme ‘Localisation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Sarawak Local Authorities’ on Tuesday.
Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari further elaborated that fresh ideas conforming to international benchmarks are necessary.
This approach ensures that local transformation efforts remain competitive and relevant within the broader regional development landscape.
He expressed confidence that with this implementation, councillors can make meaningful contributions to Sarawak’s progress.
The goal is to channel innovative concepts that align with global standards back into the state’s development pipeline.
Additionally, the Premier urged councillors to remain open to new perspectives when tackling contemporary development challenges.
He highlighted that the requirements of a modern city extend far beyond the provision of fundamental infrastructure.
He explained that the historical approach of building roads and ensuring stable electricity and water supply, while once sufficient, is no longer adequate. Current needs have evolved significantly, demanding different strategies.
Using the example of vehicle emissions, he illustrated how issues once considered minor, like smoky exhausts, have become major problems today due to concerns over greenhouse gas emissions.
The Premier also voiced his conviction that Sarawak is on track to become an ASEAN star by 2035. He attributed this anticipated success to the concerted implementation of various green energy initiatives and comprehensive urban transformation programmes.
The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Prof. Dr Sim Kui Hian and Deputy Ministers of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil and Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee.
