KUCHING: Issues of brain drain may be a thing of the past in Sarawak as more Sarawakian are returning home to contribute to the development of the state.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said there is a positive trend of Sarawakian professionals returning to work in the state due to its growing economy.
“Many Sarawakian professionals have returned. There is a doctor who worked in Singapore, has come back to Sarawak and will be part of the team to set up the 300-bed hospital focusing on cancer and neuroscience treatment.
“Besides that, in Sarawak Metro, there was also an engineer who previously worked on Light Rail Transit (LRT), and has returned. While a semiconductor expert who is in Taiwan is also back in the state.
“This means that there is no more brain drain. They (Sarawakians) are coming back, why? Because our economy is that high and will benefit everyone,” he said.
He said this during the Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs Chambers’ (DUBS) Aidilfitri gathering held at the Raia Hotel and Convention Centre Kuching last night (May 4).
Earlier, Abang Johari, who is also the Finance and Economy Minister said that under his leadership spanning just seven years, and with the unity and strength in politics along with strong cohesion among communities, Sarawak has witnessed a significant surge in economic development.
“In the four years after the COVID-19 pandemic, my comrade and I in the government have managed to increase Sarawak’s income.
“Previously, the state’s income was at RM6 billion. By 2022, it had risen to RM11 billion, and in 2023, it reached a record high of RM13.3 billion,” he said, while adding that these figures will continue to rise.
He said according to calculations within the first three months of this year, the state’s income may surpass the previous year’s figures.
“Therefore, when we receive such income, we reinvest it in strategic projects that will boost our Gross Domestic Products (GDP) and provide opportunities for new business activities,” said Abang Johari.
