Abang Johari joins federal-state talks on Budget 2027

PUTRAJAYA: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg attended the 150th Meeting of Menteris Besar and Chief Ministers here on Tuesday (Oct. 13), which focused on strengthening federal-state cooperation in implementing the MADANI Budget 2027.

The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at Perdana Putra, brought together state leaders to discuss development priorities, financial allocations and measures to ensure more balanced growth across the country.

For Sarawak, the meeting came following the federal government’s announcement of an increased allocation of RM16.2 billion for 2027, which is expected to support the state’s development agenda.

The Sarawak Government welcomed the increase and expressed its appreciation to the federal government, particularly for its continued support towards development projects and efforts to improve the well-being of Sarawakians.

In a Facebook post following the meeting, Anwar said the discussions centred on the MADANI Budget 2027 and the National Covenant (Waad Nasional) framework, which he introduced during the tabling of the federal budget.

A group photo of state and federal leaders during the meeting.

He stressed that the framework should serve as the foundation for closer cooperation between the federal and state governments in ensuring sustainable, fair and balanced development.

“The covenant must serve as a platform for close and strong cooperation between the federal and state governments to ensure more sustainable, fair and balanced development, while promoting more inclusive well-being,” he said.

Anwar also emphasised that the budget must take into account the priorities of individual states, particularly in addressing infrastructure needs, strengthening state economies, and improving public service delivery.

He said development planning and allocations should be aligned with actual needs on the ground, with priority given to projects that directly benefit the people.

Against the backdrop of global economic uncertainties, fluctuating oil prices and national economic growth projections, he said the government must also continue addressing the rising cost of living.

“The budget must continue to protect the people’s welfare, address the cost of living, and take into account the priorities of each state, including border security, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.

Border security in the two Bornean states was among the matters highlighted during the meeting, alongside other national concerns involving cybersecurity and transboundary haze.

On cybersecurity, Anwar stressed the importance of adopting post-quantum cryptography to strengthen the protection of national data and digital systems against emerging technological threats.

Commenting on another matter, he said Indonesia had been urged to take immediate and effective action against open burning activities responsible for transboundary haze, which had affected public health and disrupted school sessions.