KUCHING: Sarawak tabled a RM14.9bil budget for 2026 focusing on sustainable development and improving people’s wellbeing.
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said RM5.6bil is allocated for operating expenditure and RM9.3bil for development.
“This budget reflects our response to global economic uncertainties, including commodity price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions,” he said on Monday (Nov 24).
“Let us be reminded that the true value of this budget is defined by its purpose,” he added in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly.
Abang Johari said total revenue for 2026 is projected at RM13.1bil, slightly lower than this year’s forecast.
He said this reflects volatile commodity markets and external economic pressures.
With ordinary expenditure projected at RM12.91bil, he said a surplus of RM144mil is expected.
He said the budget’s thrusts include diversifying the economy and building high-quality education and human capital.
Abang Johari added they include sustainable resource management, rural development and better public service delivery.
He said RM250mil will fund the Free Tertiary Education Scheme starting next year for Sarawakians in state universities.
“After consultations with state universities and Yayasan Sarawak, 64 degree programmes are included,” he said.
He said the 2026 budget remains rural biased with RM6.1bil, or 66% of RM9.3bil development, for rural initiatives.
“This allocation reaffirms our commitment to reach every corner of Sarawak,” he said.
He added it ensures no one is left behind on the path to shared prosperity.
Key allocations include RM1.05bil for roads and bridges across the state.
He said RM350mil is provided for rural transformation projects and RM315mil is set aside for regional development agencies.
