Sarawak is expected to have a surplus budget area, continuing to focus on rural development

KUCHING, Sept. 23: The Sarawak Government is expected to present surplus budgets for 2026, with development allocations continuing to be given priority, especially to accelerate rural development.

Deputy Minister in Sarawak's Premier Department (Corporate Affairs, Statements and UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol, said the trend of focusing on rural development is expected to continue, in line with the state budget approach previously.

"I believe first, it's an over budget. Second, I think the development budget will outweigh management spending.

"Within that development budget, it is likely to focus more on rural development", he told the Sarawak Media Workshop 2026 here today.

Abdullah said that among the priorities of rural development expected to be given attention are efforts to upgrade road networks in rural areas, including plans to upgrade nearly 1,700 kilometers of ballak roads.

He said other aspects of basic facilities including electricity supply, telecommunications access and clean water supply systems are also expected to continue to be a part of the development focus.

Meanwhile, Abdullah said Sarawak hopes that the interim grant of RM1.5 billion announced by the Federal Government can be channelled immediately to support infrastructure development agenda, especially in rural and rural areas.

He said the funds were important to accelerate development and ensure that people can enjoy the benefits of basic facilities.

"I hope that RM1.5 billion can be channelled immediately. This is where the Federal Government's political determination to deliver on those promises lies", he said.