KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 19): Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has expressed optimism regarding the RM5.9 billion allocated for the state in Budget 2025, stating that it will significantly aid the state’s development.

Although the allocation is less than Sabah’s RM6.7 billion, Abang Johari emphasised that the funds would help enhance critical sectors in Sarawak.

“We would like to thank the federal government for the allocation of RM5.9 billion for Sarawak’s development.

“Even though it is lesser than Sabah, at least we have been aided by the federal government in our efforts to improve the important sectors in the state,” he said when met by reporters after a townhall session at the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak (LBAS) in Mitec here this evening.

Additionally, Abang Johari expressed gratitude for the federal government’s decision to double the Special Grants for Sarawak and Sabah in Budget 2025, increasing the grant from RM300 million to RM600 million.

He also highlighted the allocation of RM2 billion for upgrading and maintaining schools across the nation, which has been included in the budget.