KUCHING, Jan 14 : Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has outlined an ambitious vision to transform Sarawak into the “Norway of the East” by capitalising on its natural resources, skilled workforce, and progressive policies.
During a townhall session commemorating his 8th year as Premier at the Himah Exchange and Event Centre (HEEC) on Monday, Abang Johari emphasised the value of learning from nations with similar characteristics in terms of natural resources, geography, and population.
“I’ve studied Scandinavian countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. Their size is comparable to Sarawak, and their populations are around five million, while ours is close to three million.
“What enabled them to achieve the progress we see today? From my research, it comes down to determination and the implementation of the right policies,” he explained, responding to a question from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) lecturer Dr. Alia Abd Latiff.
Dr. Alia had asked what factors gave the Premier confidence and optimism in executing Sarawak’s current development strategies.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari highlighted Norway’s success in leveraging its North Sea location, its robust oil and gas industry, and its highly skilled workforce.
He pointed out Norway’s ability to weather economic challenges in the European Union (EU), attributing it to effective resource management and diversification.
“Norway has a population of about five million, while ours is close to three million. They not only excel in oil and gas but also have a highly skilled and specialised workforce,” he said.
He also noted Norway’s shift toward clean energy and advanced technologies, which have ensured sustainable economic growth and stability.
“Norway remains unaffected by European challenges because they manage their economy independently. They’ve also embraced clean energy. I plan to make Sarawak the ‘Norway of the East.
“To achieve this goal, we must integrate all the elements that drive progress. We cannot afford to lag behind; we must push forward and work diligently,” he said. – TVS
