By KUCHING: Sarawak may soon benefit from another source of income said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the Cabinet has passed a few key decisions that would contribute to this.
“Earlier, I had a Cabinet meeting and we have made a few decisions which I felt will give additional income to the state,” he said.
He said this during his speech to officiate at the Premier Department’s Gawai Raya ceremony at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex today (June 16).
This is on the back of the implementation of the notable State Sales Tax (SST) on petroleum products in 2019 along the recent amendment to the Land Code as well as the Forest Ordinance to leverage on the carbon credit trading and spectrum.
Sarawak has, since the implementation of SST, boosted its coffers with income from of the imposed tax amounting to some RM8 billion over the span of three years.
It too expanded its revenue stream in 2020 by imposing SST on aluminum and increased raw water rates.
Abang Johari also said Sarawak is fortunate to have a long-term development strategy to achieve its vision to be a developed state by 2030.
“Through the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, we have been able to identify some sectors that we must improve on which will give returns in the economic perspective to Sarawak.
“God willing, Sarawak will become a developed state with high income by the year 2030,” he said.
Separately, on the festive dual celebration, the Premier said it is a hallmark for Sarawakians to celebrate all festivals.
“Today, it is very lively with many wearing different attires. This is our multiracial environment.
“We are very liberal and with this liberal approach, it will create wealth to our culture,” he said.
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