KUCHING: The Sarawak Cabinet will be expanded to accommodate four more ministers following an amendment to the state constitution.
State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the increase will strengthen the executive machinery, enhance policy coordination and ensure the effective distribution of ministerial portfolios.
He added that it was timely after the Sarawak Legislative Assembly passed a Bill to increase its members from 82 to 99 during a special sitting in July.
"With the increase in the number of constituencies and administrative areas, the present composition of the state Cabinet is no longer proportionate to the state’s expanding governance structure.
"It must also be acknowledged that several ministers are currently entrusted with multiple portfolios, resulting in heavier administrative responsibilities and increased demands to manage a wider range of duties across key sectors," he said when tabling the Constitution of the State of Sarawak (Amendment) Bill on Monday (Nov 24).
The state Cabinet currently comprises the Premier and 10 other ministers in accordance with Article 6(3) of the state constitution.
The amendment introduces a new provision allowing the Yang di-Pertua Negeri, on the advice of the Premier, to appoint up to four additional members when necessary.
"The core composition prescribed under Article 6 remains untouched. This is not an alteration of the existing structure but a calibrated mechanism to provide flexibility and responsiveness within the existing constitutional design," Abdul Karim said.
He said the amendment was necessary as Sarawak's government machinery had expanded in scope and responsibility.
"It is crucial that the constitutional framework evolves in tandem. This Bill strengthens the capacity of the state government to address emerging challenges, distribute portfolios more effectively and ensure policy formulation and implementation remain efficient," he added.
After being debated by 23 assemblymen, the Bill was passed with 74 votes in favour and two against.
