Taib (seated centre) is seen with the state’s elected representatives during the opening of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting yesterday. The Head of State is flanked by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Adenan Satem (left) and DUN Speaker Datuk Amar Mohd Asfia Awang Nassar.
KUCHING: Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud yesterday called on all government agencies to intensify their effort to ensure that all programmes and projects under the Eleventh Malaysia Plan (11MP) are successfully implemented to benefit the people.
He reminded that one of the core thrusts of the 11MP is to transform the development landscape of the rural areas.
“This is precise as the rural areas in the state are still very broad which needs attention by the government and I hope that this effort will close the development gap between the urban and rural areas,” he said in his opening address for the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting yesterday.
Taib reminded the people to continue to assist the government realise the state’s development agenda.
“I’m grateful that the state economy continues to grow despite the global economic uncertainties. Sarawak’s economic growth rate is expected to grow around four per cent in 2016.
“With the strong economic fundamentals supported by the encouraging investment activities, I’m confident that the state’s economy will continue to grow,” he said.
“I’m proud as the state is one of the attractive investment destinations for local and foreign investors and note that the inflow of investment into the state is important for creating business opportunities and jobs for the people,” he added.
He expressed confidence that the industrial, tourism and property development sectors will become the basis of economic growth for the state, in addition to the existing economic activities such as the oil and gas industry and forestry.
“As such, through efficient economic management and implementation of the development programmes, the state has managed to increase its per capita income and reduce poverty,” he pointed out.
He noted that in the effort to develop the state, the close ties between the state government and federal government is essential.
“This is due to the fact that Sarawak still needs the attention for the federal government, especially in terms of provision for basic infrastructure development such as roads, water supply and electricity, health and education facilities.”
He also said through the mandate given by the people in the last state election, the state government will be able to further negotiate with the federal government effectively to balance the development between Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.