S’wak has to rely on its resources to develop — Dr Sim

SIBU: This year marks a critical decade for Sarawak as it has to look within itself for resources to develop the state.

In view of that, the state has to fully exploit its resources for development unlike before when the state could ask the federal government for financial help.

Local Government and Housing Minister Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian made these remarks when officiating at the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) annual dinner on Sunday.

“This year marks a crucial decade for Sarawak as it has woken up to take care of itself. Before 2018, if we needed money, we called KL. After 2018, we had to start looking for money ourselves.

“This is what l mean when I say 2020 onwards is so critical for Sarawak because we have finally woken up to the fact that Sarawak has look after itself to prosper. There should be no divisive force, no harassment, and no one can stop Sarawak from prospering unless we are not united,” he pointed out.

He said Sarawak’s prosperity would be shared among all Sarawakians, irrespective of race, religion, and whether in urban or rural areas.

On SMC, he hoped that it could remain excellent in its service delivery.

He expressed his appreciation to the management, staff and councillors of SMC for doing a good job last year.

This is what l mean when I say 2020 onwards is so critical for Sarawak because we have finally woken up to the fact that Sarawak has look after itself to prosper. There should be no divisive force, no harassment, and no one can stop Sarawak from prospering unless we are not united. Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian

“I hope that this excellent service can be maintained to serve the people of Sibu better,” he said.

Local Government and Housing Assistant Minister Datu Dr

Penguang Manggil, SMC chairman Clarence Ting, deputy chairman Bujang Zainuddin and Temengong Dato Vincent Lau were among those present.