PETALING JAYA, Nov 5 — Sarawak is considering a long-term urban development policy through 2050 to guide settlement planning and ensure balanced development across major cities, smaller towns and rural areas.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the proposed Sarawak Urban Development Policy 2050 would provide long-term direction for the state’s urban and settlement system, taking into account its vast geographical landscape and diverse communities.
He said the policy should be aligned with statutory plans, development decisions, infrastructure programmes and accountable delivery arrangements to ensure that strategic planning translates into effective implementation.
“Through the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, we seek to advance economic prosperity, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability as mutually reinforcing objectives,” he said.
He said this during his closing keynote address titled “Leadership for Better Cities: Our Shared Responsibility”, at the 11th National Planning Congress 2026, Dewan Sivik Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya, here today.
Elaborating further, Abang Johari said Sarawak recognised the importance of developing a strong settlement system that connected urban centres with their surrounding regions.
“Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, Miri and our growing towns should play complementary roles in providing services, employment and economic opportunity,” he added.
Abang Johari said development planning should also take into account the different needs of smaller towns, riverine settlements, rural communities and interior areas.
He noted the state should not expect every settlement to become a metropolitan centre, but instead ensure that each had access to appropriate services, connectivity and economic opportunities.
He emphasised that strategic plans must guide land use, transport, housing, public facilities and environmental protection in a coordinated manner, with clear outcomes, responsible agencies and the necessary resources for implementation.
“We do not claim to have solved every challenge…but we believe consistent policy direction, institutional cooperation and a commitment to measurable outcomes provide the foundation for progress,” he said.
Abang Johari said the true measure of development was whether it delivered tangible benefits to the people, such as shorter journeys to work, better homes, more reliable public services, safer neighbourhoods and lower household expenses. — Bernama
Date: 5 November, 2026 6:19 pm
Source: Malay Mail
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