State Secretary says the 2027 Budget gives emphasis to institutional empowerment, competency development of the civil servants

KUCHING, Oct 12 2026: The Sarawak Civil Service (SCS) has expressed its appreciation to Premier Abang Johari Openg for the tabling of the 2027 State Budget which emphasis institutional empowerment, competency development, and the welfare of the civil servants.

Caption: State Secretary Mohd Abu Bakar Marzuki says a key initiative welcomed by the civil service is the allocation of RM25 million to the Leadership Institute Sarawak Civil Service (LISCS) to bolster leadership and competency development among civil servants

State Secretary Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, on behalf of the entire SCS workforce, wished to acknowledge the Sarawak government's unwavering commitment to strengthening the capabilities and professionalism of civil servants in order to enhance the quality of service delivery to the people.

"We deeply appreciate the Sarawak government's efforts and dedication to strengthening the capabilities, professionalism, and welfare of civil servants, particularly through the Ninth Strategic Thrust: 'Institutionalising High-Performance Government and Fiscal Resilience'," he said in a media statement when reacting to the tabling of the 2027 budget by the premier.

He added that a key initiative welcomed by the service is the allocation of RM25 million to the Leadership Institute Sarawak Civil Service (LISCS) to bolster leadership and competency development among civil servants

He noted that RM2.38 million has been allocated for a study on developing the Sarawak Civil Service Transformation and Innovation Ecosystem.

"Both initiatives represent strategic steps towards strengthening the SCS as a high-performing and innovative institution capable of meeting administrative demands and the increasingly complex needs of the people," he explained.

Regarding welfare and infrastructure, he also welcomed the allocation of RM347 million for the construction and upgrading of government offices and civil servant housing facilities across Sarawak.

He stated that this initiative would provide a more conducive working environment, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of service delivery in both urban and rural areas. Meanwhile, he explained that the RM24 million allocation for the implementation of 65 digital projects for Sarawak Government services is expected to accelerate the public sector's digital transformation, aligning with the target of digitizing 80 percent of government services by 2027 and 100 percent by 2030.

“This effort will not only expand public access to digital government services but also strengthen system integration and secure information sharing among agencies, enabling services to be delivered more efficiently, conveniently, and seamlessly,” he stated.

He also welcomed the expanded access to international-standard professional qualifications through the Sarawak Centre of Performance Excellence (SCOPE), including those from the Malaysian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA) and the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) programme.

According to him, these opportunities will enhance the expertise of civil servants in financial management, auditing, and governance, thereby strengthening the integrity and accountability of public resource management.

Mohamad Abu Bakar described these initiatives as a manifestation of the Sarawak government's confidence in the Sarawak Civil Service's (PANS) ability to shoulder greater responsibilities in driving the state's development agenda.

“We deeply appreciate this recognition and trust; it certainly serves as a morale booster for the entire Sarawak Civil Service workforce to continue improving the quality of service delivery to the people,” he said.

In this regard, he urged all PANS personnel to strengthen their commitment, enhance their competencies, and cultivate a culture of integrity, innovation, and excellence in carrying out their duties.

“The trust placed in us by the Sarawak government leadership requires us to ensure that every allocation is utilized optimally and that every planned policy, program, and initiative is executed with high discipline, so that the results can be truly felt by the people across Sarawak,” he emphasized.

 He also reaffirmed PANS's commitment to ensuring that all plans under the 2027 budget are effectively implemented for the sake of the state's development and the well-being of the people. 

Rural school SMK Long Bedian emerges champion at Petrosains TechAII national level competition

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 12 2026: Sekolah Mengengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Long Bedian, located at Telang Usan district in Baram, has emerged champion at the Petrosains Tech4All 2026 national level competition with its innovative artificial intelligence (AI)-powered waste sorting system.

Caption: SMK Long Bedian team that emerged champion at Petrosains TechAII national level competition

The school clinched the top prize with its project, Smart Object Recycling Technology (S.O.R.T.), designed to help its school cleaner sort waste more efficiently while promoting environmental sustainability among students.

The system combines AI and Arduino coding, using a camera to identify different types of waste, including cans, plastic and paper, before automatically opening the appropriate bin.

Team member Agustus Antonio Galvin, 12, said the project was inspired by the team’s desire to help their school cleaner, known as Aunty Siti.

“We created S.O.R.T. because we wanted to help Aunty Siti, our school cleaner, sort waste more easily and save time,” he said.

Meanwhile, teacher Hanson Teo Kim Guan, 28, expressed pride in the students' achievement, saying they had successfully applied their knowledge to develop a practical solution to a real-world problem.

“This is our first time participating in Petrosains Tech4All, so seeing our students make it into the Top 10 and eventually emerge as champions is truly meaningful for us,” he said.

The team took home RM3,500 in cash, certificates and exclusive Petrosains merchandise.


The first runner-up from SK Punan, Johor and second runner-up from SK Telanok, Pahang received RM2,500 and RM2,000 respectively, along with certificates and exclusive Petrosains’ merchandise.

Meanwhile, the teams that placed fourth from SK Runchang, Pahang and fifth from SK Padang, Sabah each received RM1,000, certificates and exclusive Petrosains’ merchandise in recognition of their outstanding efforts.

Held at Petrosains, The Discovery Centre, here on Monday, the national competition brought together 40 students and 20 teachers representing 10 schools from Orang Asli and Peribumi communities in Johor, Kelantan, Pahang, Selangor, Sabah and Sarawak.

Now in its third consecutive year, Petrosains Tech4All has evolved from a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) outreach initiative into a sustainable platform that empowers Orang Asli and Peribumi students, teachers and communities through robotics, coding, computational thinking and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI).

Through a combination of educator development, hands-on learning and innovation-based challenges, the programme, organised by Petrosains in collaboration with the Ministry of Education's Daily School Management Division with support from OPITO and Hibiscus Petroleum, continues to bridge educational gaps while nurturing future-ready talent across Malaysia.

2027 State Budget not totally an election budget; many of the initiatives have been implemented

By Simon Isaiah

I will not call the 2027 State Budget totally an election budget. On the surface, it appears to be so designed to guarantee victory in the state election expected to be held later this year. However, after looking through the budget, many of the initiatives in the budget, in fact, have been implemented.

Caption: Premier Abang Johari Openg tabling the 2027 State Budget

Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS) aid scheme, Senior Citizens Health Scheme, Gold Gold Kenyalang and a number of aid and welfare schemes are in fact have been implemented,

And so are the 25% discount on electricity bill, water bill and assistance to the students have already been implemented.

These are the initiatives which are dear and near to the ordinary people's hearts.

As pointed out by Premier Abang Johari Openg, at the heart of 2027 Budget is a simple principle: people must remain at the centre of development. Economic growth is important. Fiscal strength is vital. Investment is necessary. Infrastructure is critical. But all these are means to an end. The end is human well-being.

The budget is about a family that can afford a decent life, a young person who can find meaningful employment, a rural community with the same dignity of access to essential services as an urban community, an elderly person who can live with security, and a child who receives a good education regardless of where he or she is born. That is what development means. 

The 2027 budget, as expected, will therefore, continue to support households facing these life challenges while addressing the structural pressures that keep families vulnerable. But we must also recognise an important principle.

The best social protection is not simply a transfer of money. The best social protection is an economy that creates opportunity: a job with a good wage, a business that can grow, a skill that is valued by industry, a farm produce that can reach the market, and a young person who can build a career in Sarawak.

The budget will, therefore, combine social protection with economic empowerment. The state government will help people today while creating pathways for them to become more economically secure tomorrow

However, the budget's nine main thrusts aim to accelerate Sarawak’s economic transformation by advancing higher‑value industries and diversifying beyond traditional sectors. 

They unlock new growth areas in digital technology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing, while fostering private investment through innovation and strategic partnerships.

At the same time, these measures expand employment opportunities, strengthen human capital, as well as building a competitive and agile workforce. Together, these measures will help secure Sarawak’s long-term prosperity that are sustainable, inclusive, and future‑proof.

The 2027 Budget will, therefore, continue to support households facing these life challenges while addressing the structural pressures that keep families vulnerable. But we must also recognise an important principle. 

The best social protection is not simply a transfer of money. The best social protection is an economy that creates opportunity: a job with a good wage, a business that can grow, a skill that is valued by industry, a
farm produce that can reach the market, and a young person who can build a career in Sarawak.

The budget will, therefore, combine social protection with economic empowerment. The state government will help people today while creating pathways for them to become more economically secure tomorrow

Above all, it is a budget that speaks directly to the rakyat, ensuring growth that uplifts every household while preparing for a sustainable and secure tomorrow. 

The budget aims to ensure that every Sarawakian has access to quality jobs, sustainable incomes, and opportunities to uplift their families.

According to the premier, the 2027 Budget is a budget of confidence, hope and optimism. Confidence in the ingenuity and resilience of the people. Confidence in the institutions. Confidence in Sarawak's economic potential. 

Abang Johari: State government to continue with 25 % electricity discount, RM5 monthly subsidy for water bill

KUCHING, Oct 12 2026: The state government will continue with a 25 percent electricity bill discount from January to December 2027, benefiting around 716,000 domestic consumers across Sarawak with financial implication amounting to RM281 million.

Caption: Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian shaking hands with  Premier Abang Johari Openg as two other deputy premiers Douglas Uggah and Awang Tengah Ali Hasan watch

Premier Abang Johari Openg said the state government will also continue with a RM5 monthly subsidy for water bill under the free domestic consumers with financial implication amounting to RM35 million.

"These initiatives reflect a government that governs with compassion, foresight, and responsibility—balancing fiscal discipline with social equity," he said when tabling the 2027 State Budget in the State Legislative Assembly today.

"By strengthening our safety nets, we strengthen the very fabric of Sarawak, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of circumstances, is given the opportunity to live with dignity, hope, and security," he added.

Abang Johari: SKAS aid scheme to continue next year

KUCHING, Oct 12 2026: The state government will continue with the Sumbangan Keperluan Asas Sarawak (SKAS) scheme, which provides financial aids for B40 households, senior citizens, and eligible
singles, next year.

Premier Abang Johari Openg said the recipients will receive RM1,100 for B40 households, RM600 for senior citizens and RM375 eligible singles.

He said he is confident that the measures provide immediate relief, ensuring that families can meet their essential needs with dignity and stability. 

"For this purpose, an allocation of RM650 million is provided under the 2027 State Budget," he said when tabling the budget in the State Legislative Assembly today

He said the state government will continue to uphold a cradle-to-grave welfare framework, a comprehensive system of care that accompanies our citizens throughout life’s journey. 

"This includes the Endowment Fund Sarawak with an allocation of RM15 million and Bantuan Ibu Bersalin with an allocation of RM5 million in 2027, affirming our commitment to mothers and children as the foundation of healthy families and
communities.

"In addition, RM45.9 million is allocated to Sarawak Welfare Department for various Welfare Aids, such as Bantuan Am, Bantuan Belia-Beliawanis, Bantuan Kanak-Kanak,and Bantuan OKU Tidak Berupaya Bekerja. 

"In times of crisis, RM13.6 million is set aside for Bantuan Bencana, ensuring immediate relief for food, shelter, and education during disasters," he said.

Abang Johari said the state government will continue to provide a Stage Bus Fare Subsidy, making public transport affordable and inclusive. 

He said with fares kept low at RM1 per trip and a RM30 unlimited monthly pass, it has significantly reduced the daily cost of travel for working families. 

He said an allocation of  RM8.5 million is provided under this Budget next year.

The premier said a sum of RM14.2 million is allocated in 2027 for Bantuan Perubatan, and Bantuan Pesakit Buah Pinggang, enabling timely treatment and easing the burden of dialysis for end-stage kidney patients.

"For senior citizens, the Senior Citizens Health Benefit will continue next year with an allocation of RM50 million, providing cashless outpatient care up to RM500 per person per year for households earning RM7,000 and below. 

"Complementing this, the Kenyalang Gold Card extends Death Compassionate Assistance of RM1,800, with RM12 million allocated to ease the financial burden of bereavement," he added.

2027 State Budget highlights: RM1 million for DLP, RM6 million for UP-DLPS, RM200 million for FTES, subsidy for PTPTN student loan repayment, RM50 million for students' pocket money scheme

1. The state government to continue strengthening English proficiency and enhance students’ competencies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to support the Dual Language Programme (DLP) across schools in Sarawak. For 2027, RM1 million is earmarked for continued implementation of DLP. 

2. A sum of RM6 million is allocated for the continued implementation of the Ujian Penilaian Dual Language Programme Sarawak (UP-DLPS) for Year 6 covering English, Science and Mathematics. This statewide assessment provides a standardised benchmark of pupils' proficiency and understanding, particularly in Science and Mathematics taught in English, with the assessment instruments reviewed and validated by Cambridge University Press and Assessment. 

3. An allocation of RM200 million is earmarked to implement Free Tertiary Education Scheme, which is expected to benefit up to 10,600 students.

4. The state government to continue to subsidize PTPTN student loan repayment for Sarawakian borrowers who have demonstrated responsible financial discipline by repaying more than 30 percent of their total study loan amount. In 2027,
RM10 million is set aside to sustain this meaningful financial assistance programme.

5. The state government will continue providing Special Pocket Money assistance to Sarawakian students enrolled in Diploma and Degree programmes at recognised institutions of higher learning across Malaysia. For this purpose, an allocation of RM50 million is provided next year to help cover essential living expenses such as food and daily necessities.

6. A sum of RM38 million under Alternative Funding has been earmarked for setting up Yayasan Sarawak International Secondary School campuses in Bintulu and Miri,
complementing the existing campuses in Kuching and Sibu

2027 State Budget highlights: RM70 million for Sarawak Media Group, full rollout for ART in 2027, RM29 for early childhood education, RM4 million for school uniform programme

1. A sum of RM70 million is allocated next year to complete office and studio facilities for Sarawak Media Group (TVS) for the International Broadcast Centre, alongside RM60 million for Sarawak Media Network Initiatives under the Digital Economy framework. Complementing these media initiatives, RM500 thousand is provided to commence Phase 1 of the Sarawak Arts Gallery to empower local visual artists

2. Sarawak is advancing its clean-energy future through the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS), with the pilot deployment of hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) in 2026, followed by full rollout from 2027.
The pilot route will operate from the Rembus Depot in Samarahan to Northbank in Stutong, supported by hydrogen feeder buses and the hydrogen production plant at the Rembus
Depot

3. A sum of RM29 million is provided to SeDidik to  |support its operational and developmental needs, thereby enabling it to continue providing quality early childhood education and care to our children.
Another RM14 million is allocated as Annual Special Grant to support all registered early childhood centres across Sarawak. This allocation will strengthen their capacity to provide safe and high-quality learning environments for our children.


4. The school uniform assistance Programme that provides RM200 vouchers to eligible students, helping families to meet the cost of uniforms, shoes, and school bags. Under this Budget, RM4 million is allocated next year to benefit students throughout the State. 

5. The State Government continues the Free School Bus Programme. This initiative provides free transportation for children from underprivileged households, ensuring that no child is denied schooling due to transport costs.
Operating in Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, and Miri, the programme incorporates smart bus tracking systems, enhancing safety and efficiency while also helping to reduce traffic congestion around schools. 

Thousands of students have already benefited, and for 2027, RM10 million is provided, reflecting the government's commitment to education and welfare of the students

2027 State Budget highlights: RM32.5 million for NCR land development, embarking on Masterplan study for Space and Aerospace Dev, Limbang-Trusan potential oil exploration areas

 1. For Native Customary Rights land development, RM32.5 million in Federal loan funding to SALCRA is budgeted next year for oil palm replanting across 8,300 hectares and new planting across 6,400 hectares. Another RM2 million is budgeted to accelerate Section 18 land title issuance for SALCRA participants.

2. The government will embark on a Masterplan Study for Space and Aerospace Development, which will guide the State’s long-term strategy in this frontier sector. An allocation of RM1.5 million is provided
next year to support this study. These measures are anchored by the Sarawak Space Agency (SSA), which is being entrusted to spearhead the development of Sarawak space sector.

3.The Adong Kechil West field in Block SK433, whichachieved first oil production in 2026 from Well No. 1, revives Sarawak’s onshore petroleum industry after nearly five decades. Its associated gas will support the Miri CCGT, reinforcing local supply security. Looking ahead, with promising gas potential in Limbang-Trusan set for intensified exploration next year, the northern frontier is poised to emerge as a new growth corridor for industry, petrochemicals, and revenue diversification.

4. The Kuching Low-Carbon Gas Hub at Tanjung Embang will integrate LNG regasification, gas-fired power generation, and low-carbon industries, supported by new logistics infrastructure. Development is expected to commence in 2027
under a public-private partnership model.

5. For 2027, the state government is committing a substantial RM103.7 million in development expenditure alongside RM186 million in dedicated operational and event grants to accelerate the growth of this vital tourism sector. 

2027 State Budget highlights: RM11.2 billion in approved investments, crude petroleum exports registered 2.72 million tonnes, LNG exports registered 11.44 million tonnes

1. Investment activity is projected to expand by 5.0 percent in 2026, supported by continued public development spending and private-sector participation. In the first half of the year alone, Sarawak secured RM11.2 billion in approved investments across the services, manufacturing, and primary sectors - reflecting investor confidence in our State’s economic
prospect

2. On the external front, Sarawak’s trade performance has remained robust. In the first seven months of 2026, total trade expanded by 12.3 percent to RM117.1 billion, with exports rising
by 14.7 percent to RM79.2 billion, and imports increasing by 7.6 percent to RM38 billion. This stronger export performance widened the trade surplus to RM41.2 billion, 

3. Crude petroleum exports registered a modest increase of 1.5 percent, reaching 2.72 million tonnes while the export value rose more significantly by 13.7 percent. This stronger growth in value was underpinned by favourable global oil prices, with Brent crude averaging around USD91 per barrel during the period. 

LNG exports also recorded robust growth, with volumes rising by 22.8 percent to 16.44 million tonnes, accompanied by a 19.8 percent increase in export value.


4. For the year as a whole, inflation is projected to range between 1.0 percent and 1.5 percent, reflecting the expected side effects from recent developments in global energy and
commodity prices. 

5. Labour market conditions in Sarawak remained favourable in the first half of 2026. The labour force expanded to 1.267 million persons, compared with 1.262 million in the same
period last year, while the unemployment rate remained stable at an average of 3.4 percent.


6. Looking ahead to 2027, Sarawak’s economy is projected to expand between 5.0 percent and 6.0 percent, anchored by sturdy domestic demand and the continued
implementation of various investment projects.

7. In total, the State Government has committed RM1 billion to transform Sarawak’s paddy industry, with 14,000 hectares earmarked for paddy cultivation, and to be
equipped with complete modern irrigation and drainage systems.

Development will proceed in phases, with Phase 1 scheduled to begin in 2027, covering seven (7) areas totalling approximately 2,000 hectares

Premier Abang Johari: A sum of RM14.845 billion is proposed for Ordinary Expenditure, against a revenue estimates of RM15.091 billion

KUCHING, Oct 12 2026: Premier Abang Johari Openg said the 2027 State Budget is proposing a total Ordinary Expenditure of RM14.845 billion. 

He said of this amount, RM5.747 billion is allocated for Operating Expenditure, while RM9.098 billion is appropriated to the Development Fund
Account.

"This appropriation serves to strengthen the balance carried forward in the Development Fund Account, ensuring adequate financing for the 2027 Development Expenditure,
which has been budgeted at RM10.098 billion

"We will also be appropriating RM300 million to Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund (SSWFF) next year, ensuring that a portion of our revenues are preserved to benefit future generations," Abang Johari, who is also the Finance and New Economy Minister, said

He said out of the Operating Expenditure of RM5.747 billion, a sum of  RM1.421 billion or 25 percent for personnel emolument,  RM2.024 billion or 35 percent for supplies and services.

He added  RM1.976 billion or 34 percent for grants and fixed payments, which includes operating grants to Statutory Bodies and Local Authorities, servicing of public debts and payments of 
servicing of public debts and payments of gratuities, pensions, and scholarships, including financial and welfare assistances;  RM134 million for procurement of assets; and RM192 million for other operating expenses.

Abang Johari said with the projected revenue of RM15.091 billion and total Ordinary Expenditure of RM14.845 billion, the 2027 Sarawak Budget is expected to deliver a surplus of RM246 million. 

"This surplus shows that Sarawak is managing its finances wisely - meeting today’s needs while preparing for tomorrow," he said, adding that the government will continue to seek new ways to sustain the state financial strength,
ensuring resilience and stability so that prosperity reaches every corner of Sarawak.

Sarawak projected to collect the highest ever revenue estimates of RM15.091 billion next year, says premier

KUCHING, Oct 12 2026: Sarawak is projected to collect a revenue estimates of RM15.091 billion next year, the highest ever revenue collected, Premier Abang Johari Openg said when tabling the 2927 State Budget in the State Legislative Assembly (SLA) today.

Caption: Premier Abang Johari Openg urges the federal government to expedite the finalization of the formula on the Special Grant so that the obligations under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) can be fully honoured.

He said tax Revenue totalling RM6.4 billion or 43 percent of the total expected revenue in 2027, consisting, among others, RM4.6 billion from State Sales Tax, of which RM3.4 billion from crude oil, liquefied
natural gas and other petroleum products; and RM 995 million from crude palm oil and crude palm kernel oil; RM70 million from lottery; RM80 million from aluminium products; RM32 million from ferro-alloys; and  RM1.3 billion from raw water royalty;

He said Non–Tax Revenue is estimated at RM6.7 billion or 45 percent, mainly derived from  RM2.57 billion from cash compensation in lieu of oil and gas rights; RM2.6 billion from dividend income; RM746 million from interest income; and RM350 million from land premium.


"Federal grants and teimbursements are projected to reach RM1.87 billion mainly from the interim payment of Special Grant amounting to RM1.5 billion," he said.


The premier urged the federal government to expedite the finalization of the formula on the Special Grant so that the obligations under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) can be fully honoured.

"This step is not merely financial in nature. It reaffirms the spirit of mutual partnership between the state and the federation and is vital to ensure that Sarawak’s rights under
MA63 and the Federal Constitution are upheld," he said.

Sarawak collects a revenue of RM10.732 billion as of Sept this year, says Abang Johari

KUCHING, Oct 12 2026: Sarawak collected a revenue collection stands at RM10.732 billion, equivalent to  82 percent of the year’s projected target, as of September this year, Premier Abang Johari Openg said when tabling the 2027 State Budget in the State Legislative Assembly (SLA).

Caption: Premier Abang Johari Openg says based on current trends, the state government now project total revenue for 2026 to reach RM13.571 billion

He said the strong collection is driven primarily by the major revenue contributors, which are from State Sales Tax at RM3.941 billion mainly from petroleum products and crude palm oil, cash compensation in lieu of oil and gas rights at RM2.334 billion, and dividend income of  2.147 billion.  

"Based on current trends, we now project total revenue for 2026 to reach RM13.571 billion, an upward revision of RM552 million or 4.0 percent above the original estimate of RM13.049 billion," Abang Johari, who is also the Minister of Finance and New Economy, said today.

He said the principal contributor to the improvement is the upward review of the Special Grant from the federal government from RM600 million to RM1.5 billion, an increase of RM900 million, effective this year.

He said the 2026 Ordinary Expenditure has been revised upwards from RM12.905 billion to RM14.348 billion, an increase of RM1.443 billion or 11.2 percent.  

"As of September 2026, a total of RM9.434 billion, equivalent to 66 percent of the Ordinary Expenditure, has been utilized," he said, adding that of amount, RM3.959 billion was directed towards operating expenditure, while RM5.475 billion was appropriated to the Statutory Funds.

"For Development Expenditure, RM5.604 billion out of the allocated RM9.663 billion, or 58 percent, has been expended during the same period, saying that with development projects gaining momentum and implementation intensifying, expenditure is expected to increase further towards the end of the year.