MANCHESTER – Sarawak’s Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has made clear that the sustainability of the state’s economy hinges on two strategic pillars: the intellectual strength of its people and enhanced global connectivity.
Speaking at a gala dinner during the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak (UK Edition), held as part of his four-day working visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland, the premier emphasised that Sarawak must move away from dependence on finite resources such as oil and gas.
Instead, he said, the state should embrace an economic model driven by knowledge, innovation, and technological advancement.
To strengthen human capital, the Premier highlighted initiatives such as the Free Tertiary Education Sarawak (FTES) programme, which provides free higher education opportunities to Sarawakians.
He explained that this policy is designed to nurture a skilled workforce capable of supporting the state’s transition into a knowledge-based economy.
Financial prudence was also a key theme in his address. Abang Johari pointed to the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Fund (SSWF), established to safeguard the state’s long-term economic stability.
He noted that the fund had reached RM8.6 billion by last year and will remain untouched for two decades, serving as a reserve to protect Sarawak against global economic uncertainties.
“If we possess strong brain power and are skilled in managing finances, Sarawak’s future can remain secure even in the face of global economic uncertainties,” he told an audience comprising Sarawak students and expatriates living in the United Kingdom.
The Premier also stressed the importance of strengthening Sarawak’s international networks. He cited plans to establish AirBorneo, the state’s own airline, and to enhance strategic infrastructure such as Bintulu Port.
These measures, he said, would position Sarawak as a vital hub connecting trade routes between East and West, particularly as ASEAN economies shift towards green technologies.
Highlighting Sarawak’s potential in renewable energy, Abang Johari pointed to green methanol as a future fuel for the global shipping industry.
With its strategic location and commitment to green technology, he said, Sarawak is well placed to become a significant player in the emerging regional economy.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Prime Minister Datuk Amar Haji Fadillah Haji Yusof, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Works Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Malaysian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Datuk Zakri Jaafar, Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, and Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Sharifah Hasidah.
Heads of departments and agencies also joined the gathering, reflecting the broad support for Sarawak’s economic vision.
