KUCHING: A political observer has praised the Sarawak government for its shrewd revenue generation strategies, describing the government as “pandai cari duit” (good at making money).
Datuk Peter Minos acknowledged the diverse sources through which Sarawak is poised to secure substantial financial gains.
He highlighted the state’s potential to tap into hydrogen capture, solar panels, oil production through Petros, energy sales via Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB), and aviation fuels derived from algae.
Additionally, he highlighted the growing prominence of traditional and emerging industries in Bintulu.
He projected that these revenue streams alone could contribute billions to Sarawak’s coffers.
“I see the possibilities and the successes and thus feel optimistic and hopeful,” he said in a statement.
On the same note, Minos added that with increased revenues from oil and gas through Petronas, and sales tax on petroleum products, as well as the income generated from energy sales through Baku and other dams, Sarawak’s total annual revenue could surpass RM30 billion by 2030.
He said Sarawak has a strong chance of experiencing accelerated economic and social development.
This growth, he noted, could eventually enable Sarawak to narrow the gap with Malaya, leading to prosperity in both urban and rural areas.
Minos credited the success of Sarawak’s revenue strategies to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s visionary approach, which he described as “financial engineering”.
“The ideas from outside Malaysia are working and bearing fruit.
“It all goes to show how vital it is to have a top leader who is open minded and thinks out of the box, is receptive to new ideas, new ways, and new strategic thinking.
“At its current rate, Sarawak can and will most likely be one of the most economically developed regions in Malaysia by 2050. I’m very optimistic,” he added.
