KUCHING – The Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Openg received a courtesy visit from Minister of Natural Resources and Natural Sustainability Dato’ Sri Arthur Joseph Kurup on 9 April 2026. The meeting, held at the Premier’s office, focused on several key issues of national and state importance.
Central to the discussion was the progress of international border demarcation involving Sarawak. Work is ongoing to clarify boundaries with Brunei and Indonesia, a move seen as vital to safeguarding sovereignty and regional security.
The Premier and the Minister agreed that Sarawak’s involvement in the process is essential to ensure transparency and effective coordination.
The meeting also addressed matters under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). Arthur Joseph Kurup confirmed that more than 200 Federal land lots have been identified for return to Sarawak.
Of these, 53 have already been handed back, while 11 more have recently been approved for re-submission.
He explained that the restitution process would allow Sarawak to plan development more effectively, tailoring projects to the needs of local communities.
Another significant topic was the devolution of scheduled waste management. Following amendments to the Environmental Quality Act passed in the Dewan Rakyat earlier this year, Sabah and Sarawak are now empowered to take over enforcement responsibilities. The Sarawak Government has indicated readiness to meet the requirements necessary to assume this role.
Attention also turned to the National Carbon Market Policy (DPKK). With Sarawak’s forests covering more than 64 percent of the state, its contribution to Malaysia’s carbon credits is substantial.
The Premier and the Minister agreed that Sarawak’s active participation in the policy is crucial to ensure effective implementation.
A special committee will be formed to coordinate planning and establish a new Carbon Registry, harmonising state and federal approaches through continuous consultation.
Arthur Joseph Kurup further announced the appointment of Ranger Community members in Sarawak, noting that the state has one of the highest numbers of appointments this year.
A total of RM11.6 million has been allocated to appoint more than 325 rangers, with the official ceremony scheduled for 11 April at Dewan Kampung Semebah.
The courtesy visit highlighted the strong collaboration between the Sarawak Government and the Federal Ministry, particularly in areas of border security, environmental sustainability, and land management.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that policies and initiatives benefit the people of Sarawak while contributing to Malaysia’s broader development goals.
