Sarawak Premier presents budget emphasizing development and future fund

In a session of the State Legislative Assembly, Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg introduced the state's upcoming budget, framing it around the theme of building prosperity together. The budget divides resources between operating expenditures and a development fund designed to bolster the balance carried forward and finance upcoming development projects. A dedicated sovereign wealth fund will be created to preserve part of the state's earnings for future use.

Detailed allocations cover staff salaries, procurement of supplies, grants to statutory bodies and local authorities, debt servicing, and various welfare programmes. Revenue forecasts indicate an increase that should allow the state to finish the year with a surplus. The Premier highlighted the budget as a demonstration of the government's commitment to meeting the needs of Sarawak's residents.