Sarawak eyes 2050 plan to spread jobs, services and growth beyond major cities

PETALING JAYA, Nov 5 — Sarawak is contemplating a long-term urban development policy up until 2050 to steer settlement planning and promote balanced growth throughout major cities, smaller towns, and rural areas. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg outlined the proposed Sarawak Urban Development Policy 2050, which aims to provide a long-term direction for the state's urban and settlement system, considering its expansive geography and diverse communities.

Abang Johari stated that the policy should align with statutory plans, development decisions, infrastructure initiatives, and accountable delivery mechanisms to ensure effective implementation.

The Premier made these remarks during his concluding keynote address titled "Leadership for Better Cities: Our Shared Responsibility" at the 11th National Planning Congress 2026, held at the Dewan Sivik Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya. He emphasized the importance of developing a robust settlement system that links urban centers with their surrounding regions. Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, Miri, and emerging towns should each play complementary roles in providing services, employment, and economic opportunities.

Abang Johari highlighted that development planning should take into account the distinct needs of smaller towns, riverine settlements, rural communities, and interior areas. He clarified that not every settlement needs to transform into a metropolitan center, but rather, each one should have access to suitable services, connectivity, and economic prospects.

The Premier stressed that strategic plans must guide land use, transportation, housing, public facilities, and environmental protection in a coordinated manner, with clear results, accountable agencies, and the necessary resources for execution.

While acknowledging that they may not solve all challenges, Abang Johari expressed confidence that consistent policy direction, institutional collaboration, and a commitment to measurable outcomes would create a solid foundation for progress. The true measure of development, he asserted, lies in whether it yields tangible benefits for the people, such as reduced travel times to work, improved housing, more dependable public services, safer neighborhoods, and decreased household expenditures.