Sarawak appraised increased Federal allocation to RM16.2 billion

KUCHING, Oct 10: The Sarawak Government appreciates the increase in Federal allocation to RM16.2 billion for 2027, however negotiations on state rights and interests under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) will continue.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said he appreciated the Federal Government for the increase in the allocation announced by Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim when presenting Budget 2027 yesterday.

Allocation to Sarawak increased by RM1.1 billion from RM15.1 billion in 2026, reflecting an increase in Federal development and spending allocation for the state over the coming year.

"I would like to thank the Prime Minister for increasing the contribution of the Federal Government to Sarawak worth RM16.2 billion. Thanks to the Federal Government", he said.

He said this while addressing the parade and Giant Meeting in conjunction with Sarawak State's 80th Birthday Celebration at Padang Merdeka, here today.

According to Brother Johari, MA63 and the Federal Constitution remained the foundation for Sarawak's efforts to fight for its rights and interests in the Federation of Malaysia.

As of September 2026, 13 out of 29 cases under the official negotiating platform MA63 have been fully resolved, while five more reach a partial or interim resolution.

Among the important developments this year was the handover of Bintulu Port status and management powers to Sarawak from 1 September, after 45 years under the supervision of the Federal Government.

"The acquisition value of Bintulu Port has been agreed to be RM1.8 billion and this value has been set through a process of assessment and careful negotiation between the Federal Government and the Sarawak Government.

"On 16 September last, the Prime Minister announced an increase in Interim Special Grants to Sarawak from RM600 million to RM1.5 billion for this year", he added.

Brother Johari stressed that the relations between the two governments will continue to be strengthened through continuous negotiations based on understanding and loyalty spirit of friends, in line with the Federal Constitution as well as MA63. - TVS