The State Budget 2019 tabled by the Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg in the DUN yesterday reflected his sensitivity and concern for the needs of the people to enjoy the fruits of development in the state.
Corporate Affairs Assistant Minister Abdullah Saidol when met at the DUN building yesterday said the state budget is closer to the hearts of Sarawakians who need continuity of development, particularly in the rural parts of the state.
“It is a very good budget for sustainable and continuity in development and this shows that our Chief Minister understands intimately the needs of the people,” he said.
Abang Johari, who is also the Finance and Economic Planning Minister, tabled the record-breaking state budget with heavy emphasis on rural development which has the lion share of 67 percent or RM 6.05 billion.
Abdullah added the difference between the state budget and the Federal Government budget is the Sarawak Budget is detailed and includes overall development, compared to the general and unspecified budget of the federal.
Commenting on allegations by some parties who accuse Sarawak of using its state reserves, he replied that yesterday’s budget presentation had proven that the Sarawak Government is transparent in managing its finances.
He also admitted that it was unfair for Sarawak not to accept huge allocations just because it had large reserves.
“The Sarawak Budget 2019 is the best in history and should be emulated by other states,” he said, adding that for the first time the state revenue record which is expected to increase by RM10 billion next year will further strengthen the state’s financial position.
