Sarawak: Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today unveiled a RM12.9 billion Budget for 2026, comprising RM7.3 billion for development expenditure and RM5.6 billion for operating expenditure.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the budget is themed ‘Empowering People, Advancing Prosperity, Building a Resilient Future,’ and it reflects the Sarawak government’s commitment to sustaining economic growth, strengthening social welfare, and accelerating development in line with the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).

Abang Johari stated that with a projected revenue of RM13.05 billion and total ordinary expenditure of RM12.91 billion, the 2026 Sarawak Budget is expected to generate a surplus of RM144 million. He made these remarks while tabling the budget at the State Legislative Assembly sitting.

A significant portion of the development budget, totaling RM6.1 billion or 66 percent, is allocated to rural development initiatives, which include roads, utilities, and socio-economic projects. Specific allocations include RM350 million for Rural Transformation Projects, RM315 million for Regional Development Agencies, RM267 million for the Special Project Programme, and RM100 million for the implementation of People’s Projects.

The operating expenditure will address the state’s administrative needs, allocating RM1.4 billion for personnel emoluments, RM2.2 billion for supplies and services, RM1.8 billion for grants and fixed payments, RM99 million for assets procurement, and RM150 million for other operational requirements.

Abang Johari emphasized Sarawak’s commitment to fiscal prudence while ensuring that development reaches every region, especially rural and remote areas. He also highlighted plans for diversifying revenue sources and strengthening strategic sectors to achieve a high-income and sustainable economy in the long term.