Sarawak govt finalising investment policy that will provide clearer rules, faster approvals and more predictable processes, says Abang Johari

KUCHING, Feb 12 2026: The state government is finalising a Sarawak Investment Policy that will provide clearer rules, faster approvals, and more predictable processes, Premier Abang Johari Openg said at the Asean Sarawak Business Forum today.

Premier Abang Johari Openg:  The period from 2026 to 2030 is critical. Decisions taken now on energy systems, industrial capacity, fiscal discipline, and institutional coordination will shape Sarawak’s competitiveness well beyond this decade.  

He said through InvestSarawak, an agency under the state Ministry of International Trade, Investment and Industry, and the investment policy, approval pathways will be standardized, agency roles clarified, and timelines shortened.

“By 2030, investors should face fewer hand-offs, clearer requirements, and greater certainty from entry to operation,” the premier said.

Abang Johari stressed that the period from 2026 to 2030 is critical, saying that decisions taken now on energy systems, industrial capacity, fiscal discipline, and institutional coordination will shape Sarawak’s competitiveness well beyond this decade.

“Delays in this phase are costly. Missteps are difficult to reverse,” he warned.

He said for investors and businesses, the signal is straightforward, saying that Sarawak offers fiscal credibility, energy reliability, policy clarity, and a government prepared to make decisions under constraint.

“This is the basis on which Sarawak intends to compete in a more divided global economy.

“Sarawak is moving from vision to delivery. And we invite those who value execution, certainty, and long-term partnership to move forward with us.” he invited.

 

Appointments of community leaders and headmen are a great trust and a manifestation of leadership at the grassroots level, says Tamin YB

 

SELANGAU, Feb 12 2026: Tamin state legislative member (SLM) Christopher Gira has stressed the importance of the appointments of community leaders and village headmen, saying that it is not just a matter of filling positions, but rather a great trust and a manifestation of leadership at the grassroots level.

Christopher Gira: Community leaders and headmen are a pillar of community stability and is the main link between the government and the people at the grassroots level. 

He said the strength of a state does not only start from development in major cities, but rather is centered on the stability and progress of villages and rural areas.

"Rural communities do not ask for everything. They only want to ensure that they are not left out of the development stream. Real development is development that can be felt by all," he said.

He was  speaking at the presentation of appointment certificate to the community leaders and headmen for Selangau district for the 2026–2027 term yesterday.

As a rural representative, he understands the aspirations of the rural community who yearn for basic amenities, economic opportunities and leadership that can defend their fate.

He said community leaders and headmen are a pillar of community stability and is the main link between the government and the people at the grassroots level.

“They are like the roots of a tree. If the roots are strong, then the tree will not fall easily. That is how important their role is in ensuring that the unity and harmony of the community is always maintained," he said.

He said  the state government through the 2026 Budget has agreed to increase their allowance to RM400 per month in recognition of the increasingly challenging responsibilities.

However, he reminded that their appointments are the beginning of a greater trust and every course or programme that involve them must obtain the approval of the District Office and the Resident's Office to ensure its implementation is in line with the state's development policies and plans.

Gira expressed his concern on the issue of several longhouses that still do not have an official appointment of Tuai Rumah even though they have met the requirements.

"A village without a Tuai Rumah is like a country without representatives. Every village has the right to have a leader who is able to guide, unite and drive development," he said, hoping that the Tuai Rumah quota can be considered for increase next year.