Abang Johari tables the Supply (2026) Bill 2025 at the State Legislative Assembly building on Monday. – Sarawak Premier’s Office photo

KUCHING (Nov 24): The state government will allocate a total of RM72 million to the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC) in 2026 to support its ongoing construction and operational needs, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Speaking during the tabling of the Supply (2026) Bill 2025 at the State Legislative Assembly building, Abang Johari said RM50 million will be channeled to continue construction of the centre, while RM22 million is earmarked for operational expenses.

“The state remains committed to strengthening our healthcare infrastructure and ensuring the Infectious Disease Centre is fully equipped to meet future public health challenges,” he said.

The Premier also outlined funding for other science and research facilities. RM48 million will be provided to complete the Sarawak Science Centre, with an additional RM8 million for its operational needs.

“A further RM11 million will support various disease and research programmes,” he added.

To bolster research and development initiatives, the state government will allocate RM36 million to the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre for operations and ongoing R&D, RM26.6 million to CRAUN Research, RM5 million to the Sago and Nipah Development Board, and RM4.4 million to the Sarawak Tropical Peat Research Institute.

Abang Johari emphasised that these investments demonstrate Sarawak’s commitment to in high-impact research and development that advances science, technology, and innovation, particularly initiatives with strong commercial potential.

Meanwhile, through the Sarawak Research and Development Council, RM18.3 million has already been invested in 80 research projects spanning biotechnology, renewable energy, and green industrialisation.

An additional RM4 million will be allocated to research projects next year to further support these efforts.