KUCHING: Datuk Abang Abdul Karim Tun Openg is hopeful that the 2024 Federal Budget will provide increased funding for development projects and create an environment conducive to productivity.
The Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) president highlighted the potential of the business community in Sarawak to contribute significantly to economic growth.
He stressed the importance of collaboration between the government and businesses, seeking federal support to enhance business and development in the state.
“The state government has spent a lot in terms of policies—good policies—about the investment.
“And I believe we, the private sector, are very excited about what the government is going to do in terms of new economic policies.
“We are engaging with the government to see how better the government can assist the private sector,” he told New Sarawak Tribune.
When asked about the focus of the Federal Budget 2024, to be tabled on Oct 13, Abdul Karim expressed cautious optimism regarding its impact on Sarawak.
He hopes for a more favorable allocation from the federal government, citing the past allocation received by Sabah as an example.
“I don’t know whether or not we can expect much from the federal budget.
“But I hope the federal government will consider a pleasing allocation for Sarawak.
“I believe last time Sabah received more. I think it is high time for the government to give us more allocation this time.
“Because we are still in need of the infrastructure. I still feel we are lacking. To me, I don’t know if the last allocation was fair. They should give us assistance to uplift our infrastructure,” he said.
