RM6.4b allocated for Sarawak rural development in 2027

SARAWAK has earmarked RM6.4 billion of its RM10.098 billion development allocation for rural initiatives in 2027.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the development allocation accounted for 64 per cent of the state’s overall RM15.85 billion budget.

He said the 2027 Budget remained both development-biased and rural-biased, with allocations provided for several ongoing major rural development initiatives.

“Among these, RM350 million has been earmarked for Rural Transformation Projects and RM253 million for Program Projek Khas.

“Another RM200 million each has been allocated for Regional Development Agencies and the implementation of Projek Rakyat,” he said when tabling the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 today (Oct 12).

He also outlined allocations for water supply infrastructure, with statewide water coverage having reached 86.1 per cent.

“Under Alternative Funding, RM183 million has been allocated for the Sarawak Water Supply Grid, while RM255 million will go towards the water pipeline replacement programme.

“A further RM454 million has been set aside under the 2027 Budget for water supply facilities, including the expansion of treatment plants throughout Sarawak.”

On electricity, he said rural coverage had reached 99.3 per cent, with RM50 million allocated under Alternative Funding for ongoing Rural Electrification Scheme projects.

“Another RM63.5 million has been earmarked under the budget for SARES solar battery replacements and grid extensions.

“The electricity-related allocations also include RM6 million under the Connection Charges Government Financial Assistance initiative, which will benefit 3,000 low-income urban households.”

Beyond improving connectivity, Abang Johari said rural communities also needed production hubs, processing centres, storage and logistics facilities to enable local producers to add value to their products, create jobs and reach wider markets.

“Infrastructure must go beyond roads and bridges to create wealth, raise incomes and unlock opportunities, transforming our rural areas into vibrant Localised Production Networks,” he said.