In contrast, Mr Abang Jo used the RM12.4 billion (US$2.8 billion) revenue – the highest among states in Malaysia – to build growth industries in hydrogen, solar, biomass and semiconductors. Additionally, he also introduced many firsts among states: Sovereign wealth fund, state commercial bank, recognising the United Examination Certificate (UEC) and the Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR) for minorities.
While many of the plans, like hydrogen and semiconductors, are still at the infancy stages, the industry and its people have responded kindly. In 2023, Sarawak recorded RM22.8 billion in approved investments, and Sarawakian talents are showing openness of returning home.
Mr Abang Jo also has a few tailwinds for early success: World Bank findings classify Sarawak as a high-income state, and GPS holds the highest-ever majority of 80 seats in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly compared with the opposition’s two seats.
GPS’ political dominance will likely persist as Mr Abang Jo rakes gains in what matters most to Sarawakians: Restoring rights in tandem with MA63. As long as he continues on this track, the case for devolution will also become harder to resist. Though this may not translate to other states’ demands as Sarawak’s case will always be unique given its history and legal claims.
In cementing his personal legacy, Mr Abang Jo will likely stretch his demands, and wait patiently for the ones he has yet to obtain. Either way, Sarawakians will see him as a leader who went the furthest for them.
After all, he has waited decades to become premier. He can afford to wait a little longer.
James Chai is a political analyst, columnist and the author of Sang Kancil (Penguin Random House).
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
