FEBRUARI 2026
SARAWAK MOVES FROM VISION TO DELIVERY, SAYS PREMIER AT ASBEF 2026
KUCHING, 12 February 2026 – Sarawak is no longer waiting for global conditions to stabilise, but is instead forging ahead with execution, discipline, and targeted investment, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg declared today at the ASEAN Sarawak Business & Economic Forum (ASBEF) 2026.
Addressing business leaders and policymakers from across the region at Hilton Hotel Kuching, the Premier laid out Sarawak’s strategy to compete in what he described as a more fragmented, constrained, and unpredictable global economy.
“Ambition on its own is not enough. Competitiveness is defined by delivery and discipline. Sarawak does not wait for global stability to return. We adapt early. We focus on what we can control. We invest ahead of demand,” he said.
This year’s forum, themed “From Strategy to Scale: Competing in a Fragmented Global Economy”, centred on economic resilience, energy security, and sustainable growth. But for Sarawak, the Premier made clear that the focus has shifted decisively from planning to execution.
He announced that Sarawak Budget 2026 allocates RM9.3 billion for development expenditure; not for broad-based expansion, but for targeted investment in infrastructure, industrial capacity, energy systems, and digital readiness. Despite global volatility and tighter financial conditions, the state continues to project a budget surplus, underpinned by diversified revenue streams and prudent fiscal management.
Energy remains central to Sarawak’s competitive edge. With demand surging from AI, data centres, and advanced manufacturing, the Premier assured investors that “energy availability will not become a constraint on growth”. Ongoing investment in renewable generation and grid reliability will ensure the state remains a destination of choice for energy-intensive industries.
To strengthen investor confidence, the Premier highlighted the central role of InvestSarawak and the upcoming Sarawak Investment Policy designed to deliver clearer rules, faster approvals, and more predictable processes.
“Sarawak is open for investment. More importantly, Sarawak is serious about delivery,” he said.
Looking ahead, the Premier outlined priorities under the 13th Malaysia Plan: accelerating the clean energy transition, scaling downstream gas and petrochemical industries, and strengthening governance to shorten approval timelines. At the same time, Sarawak will advance climate action, carbon trading, and ESG integration, while ensuring that industry competitiveness and socio-economic balance are not compromised.
Declaring the 2026–2030 period as critical for Sarawak’s long-term trajectory, the Premier closed with a direct invitation to regional partners.
“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 said.
ASBEF 2026 continues through 13 February, featuring panels on energy transition, digital economy, and supply chain resilience.