Uggah is seen during the DUN sitting today. – Ukas photo
KUCHING (May 12): The Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) (Amendment) Bill, 2026 seeks to modernise and strengthen the SEDC Ordinance, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
When tabling the amendment Bill at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today, Uggah, who is also the Second Minister of Finance and New Economy, said the principal Ordinance provides for the establishment, constitution, powers, duties and functions of the corporation, as well as for matters connected and incidental thereto.
“With the robust development and changes within Sarawak under the leadership of the YAB Premier of Sarawak, a review of the principal Ordinance has been initiated to ensure that the corporation is in alignment with the aspirations of Sarawak.
“This amendment Bill, therefore, is not simply an exercise in legislative housekeeping. It is necessary and timely to ensure that the corporation remains responsive, relevant and capable of supporting Sarawak’s future economic aspirations and development agenda,” said Uggah, the Bukit Saban assemblyman.
Among the salient features of the amendment Bill is the substitution of the term ‘general manager’ with ‘group chief executive officer’.
Uggah said the change is a deliberate and strategic shift, recognising that the corporation today is no longer a single entity but a complex organisation overseeing multiple subsidiaries and commercial interests.
“This change sends a clear message: that the corporation is serious about adopting global standards, enhancing professionalism, and strengthening confidence among investors, partners and stakeholders.”
In addition, the introduction of the definition of ‘secretary’ closes an important gap and reinforces the corporation’s governance framework, as the role is currently not specifically defined despite its reference and usage in the principal Ordinance.
Thirdly, the reconstitution of the corporation’s membership seeks to ensure that the right expertise is brought to the table, he said.
Uggah explained that by expanding the scope to include ‘any other relevant field’, the amendment Bill allows the corporation to draw from a broader pool of talent and knowledge, ensuring that it remains responsive, relevant and capable of navigating an increasingly complex economic landscape.
“The introduction of a new provision for the appointment and functions of the secretary formalises a critical role within the corporation.
“The appointment will promote good governance that complements the system. This provision strengthens accountability, enhances transparency, and ensures that the corporation operates in accordance with sound governance principles,” he stressed.