KUCHING, Oct 10 — Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg expressed his appreciation to the Madani Government, led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, for the increase in the federal allocation for Sarawak to RM16.2 billion under Budget 2027.

“I extend my gratitude to the federal Government for increasing the annual allocation for Sarawak to RM16.2 billion,” he said while speaking at the parade and grand assembly held in conjunction with the 80th birthday celebration of the Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sarawak, Tun Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, at Padang Merdeka here today.

Yesterday, during the Budget 2027 presentation, Anwar announced allocations of RM18.7 billion for Sabah and RM16.2 billion for Sarawak for 2027; in comparison, under the Budget 2026, Sabah received RM17.6 billion while Sarawak obtained RM15.1 billion.

Meanwhile, Abang Johari noted that throughout his career in security, politics, and administration including as a member of the Federal Cabinet, Tun Wan Junaidi has witnessed various pivotal events that shaped the history of both the nation and Sarawak.

He said Tun Wan Junaidi’s extensive experience in security, law, constitutional matters, and administration provided a comprehensive perspective on the dynamics of governance, as well as the challenges and responsibilities involved in ensuring the stability and progress of the state and the country.

A total of 107 contingents across seven categories comprising government agencies, statutory bodies, the private sector, educational institutions, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), involving about 5,000 participants took part in the parade.

In addition, the official birthday celebrations for the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak are taking place from October 8 until tomorrow, featuring various events such as a thanksgiving ceremony and an interfaith thanksgiving ceremony, the Sarawak State Awards Investiture Ceremony, a state banquet, and a tea reception. — Bernama