Abang Johari delivers his speech during the LBAS 2025 Dinner. – Ukas photo

KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 26): ‘Anak Sarawak’ must be bold in venturing into new fields, creating innovations, and applying knowledge to ensure the state’s wealth of resources is utilised intelligently and profitably, said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

The Sarawak Premier stressed that intellectual strength is a vital component that must be strengthened to achieve this goal.

“Sarawakians must be courageous and have a vision to add value to our resources.

“Sarawak has all the resources — what we still lack is intellectual strength. Our students at universities must strengthen their knowledge so they can play a role in addressing global issues such as climate change,” he said at the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak (LBAS) 2025 dinner at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) here last night.

The event was graced by the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

He added that the enthusiasm and determination of Sarawak’s younger generation in pursuing knowledge and innovation would be key drivers of the state’s advancement.

If this spirit continues to flourish, he said, Sarawak would not only play a significant role regionally but could also take its place globally in the emerging new economy.

Celebration of Wan Junaidi’s 79th birthday took place during the event. – Ukas photo

Abang Johari also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to tackling climate change through legislation on carbon emission reduction.

He said Sarawak is the first state in the region to have laws in place to regulate carbon trading and carbon sinks.

According to him, such measures have contributed to increased state revenue, enabling the government to channel more benefits to the people.

As part of the ongoing efforts to enhance public infrastructure, he said the state government will embark on several major projects, including the construction of a highway from Miri to Lawas via Marudi, Long Lama, Mulu, and Limbang — fully funded by state resources.

Additionally, the One Water Grid project under Sarawak Water will be developed, alongside efforts to replace old pipes to ensure the delivery of clean water to villages and longhouses across the state, with an allocation exceeding RM1 billion from the state government.

“As our revenue increases, we give back to the people of Sarawak. Let us pray it continues to grow, so we can continue providing facilities, including for Sarawakians living in Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.

Abang Johari also called on Sarawakians to uphold unity and strengthen their knowledge to build a competitive generation.

“Preserve our unity and nurture wise Sarawakians so that Sarawak will shine as the star of Malaysia and the star of Asean,” he said.

The event, attended by around 6,500 ‘Anak Sarawak,’ was filled with a spirit of togetherness and celebration.

Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof; Sarawak Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi; as well as Federal and State Cabinet Ministers and other distinguished guests.