KUCHING: The use of data to develop new and improved strategies to curb the COVID-19 outbreak is important, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
According to him, the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 plan would inspire society to advance through data and innovation.
“This initiative will create a sustainable economy, social inclusion and a conducive environment.
“From an economic development point of view, the Sarawak government aims to double the economic capacity from RM136 billion to RM282 billion by 2030 with an increase of eight per cent per year,” he said at the COVID-19 Frontliners Appreciation Night at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here yesterday.
Elaborating further, Abang Johari said the COVID-19 pandemic has not only disrupted people’s daily routine, it has also impacted the state’s growth, and hence the PCDS 2030, which outlines the policy and initiative to regenerate economic growth toward achieving a developing state by 2030, was put in place.
“In order to explore and increase our revenue, I would consider a number of areas, including the carbon economy, renewable energy sources like hydrogen, frequency spectrum, and other new economic frontiers.
“Revenue engineering is a creative financial modelling technique used by Sarawak to boost revenue and maintain a fiscally sound position.
“Since we have solid governance and financial management to continue economic growth, I am optimistic that we can realise Sarawak’s aspirations by 2030,” he explained.
On another note, the premier noted that the state government has allocated RM200 million for the construction of the Sarawak Infectious Disease Research Centre (SIDS).
“With the cooperation of other research centres throughout the world, we hope that one day we can produce our own vaccine to face new diseases,” he said.
He went on to say that he had recently met with Samsung Biologics, a company that is collaborating with the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to provide medicines for any illnesses that humanity may be facing.
“With this, I’m convinced we can play our role to ensure that Sarawak’s healthcare would be protected,” said Abang Johari.
