Sarawak Eyes More Strategic Federal Asset Takeovers To Strengthen Economy
Abang Johari Says Move Will Boost High-Tech Industries And Skilled Employment
KUCHING — The Sarawak government plans to acquire more strategic federal assets and entities as part of efforts to strengthen the state economy and accelerate the growth of high-technology industries.
Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg said the move is aligned with the state’s Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which serves as Sarawak’s long-term economic transformation blueprint.
According to him, acquiring strategic assets is crucial for expanding Sarawak’s economic influence while creating more high-quality job opportunities for local residents.
He noted that Sarawak has already successfully taken over several major assets including the Bakun Dam, Bintulu Port and MASwings.
“We established Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros), acquired shares in Affin Bank to become the largest shareholder, and we intend to continue acquiring more strategic assets,” he said.
He made the remarks while addressing the Sarawak-level Workers’ Day celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching today.
Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state’s economic transformation is now focused on developing a modern economy driven by advanced technology and future industries.
According to him, Sarawak is actively strengthening sectors such as renewable energy, automation, artificial intelligence (AI), digitalisation and semiconductor manufacturing as new pillars of economic growth.
He added that these developments will require a larger pool of highly skilled professionals in industries including aerospace, digital technology and semiconductor chip production.
The state government, he said, wants to ensure Sarawakians directly benefit from the new economic opportunities being created.
Apart from strengthening the economy, the acquisition of strategic assets is also expected to improve Sarawak’s ability to independently manage key industries and resources in a more competitive manner.
-wilayah.com.my
