Premier Launches Sarawakku Sayang Bintulu
- BT
- 26 minutes ago
- 3 min read
BINTULU, 23 May 2026 - The Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg today officially launched the Sarawakku Sayang 2026 programme at the Old Airport Grounds here, drawing a crowd of more than 5,000 residents from throughout the division.
The launch ceremony, held on the second day of the three-day programme running from May 22 to 24 May, was attended by Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, as well as Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian.
In his opening address, the Premier paid tribute to past leaders for laying the groundwork that has driven Bintulu's development to where it stands today, while also expressing appreciation for the dedication of the State's civil servants in translating government policies into tangible benefits for the people.
The Premier also presented the Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance (SKAS) to senior citizens, households and single individuals to help ease the rising cost of living, and also handed over Sarawak Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES) offers to 10 selected students.
In his welcome address, host minister and ADUN for Kemena, Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, described Sarawakku Sayang as a promise, saying "The government will not sit idle behind a desk. Instead, it comes to the ground, approaches the people and delivers services directly into their hands."
Dr Rundi, who is Minister for Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development, highlighted Bintulu's remarkable rise from a quiet fishing village into the Energy Capital of Sarawak, with a population now exceeding 260,000. He cited the Samalaju Industrial Park as a key driver, noting that in 2025 alone it generated nearly 9,200 jobs, 82% of which went to Sarawakians, and contributed RM6.2 billion to the local economy. He also assured residents of Jepak, Sebauh, Tatau and Tubau that rural development remained a priority.
"The Sarawak Government loves its people. And the people of Bintulu love Sarawak. That is the true meaning of Sarawakku Sayang," he said, in concluding his speech.
Now in its latest edition, Sarawakku Sayang is a Sarawak Government outreach initiative that brings key public services directly to communities across the State. Operating as a one-stop centre, this year's Bintulu edition brings together government agencies, GLCs, NGOs and the private sector under one roof, offering services, advisory sessions and activities spanning entrepreneurship, health and welfare, digital innovation, education and more. The programme aims to bridge the gap between the government and the people, boost public confidence in the State's development agenda, and foster unity and harmony across communities.
The programme kicked off on Friday evening with Malam Budaya Sarawak, a cultural showcase featuring traditional performances and special appearances by local and national artistes. Saturday's proceedings conclude with a concert held alongside a live screening of the Malaysia Cup Final between Kuching City FC and Johor Darul Ta'zim. The final day tomorrow sees a series of running events, including a half marathon, 10km run and fun run, as well as wall climbing, traditional archery, slingshot competitions, e-sports and community cultural performances. The programme ends tomorrow afternoon with a closing ceremony and the announcement of e-contest prize winners.
PHOTO CREDIT: UKAS
