Budget 2026 Should Ensure Sarawak’s Fair Share, Says Wilfred Yap

suppadmin | October 13, 2025

The recent announcement of Budget 2026, which includes increased allocations for Sabah and Sarawak, is a positive step, but Sarawak deserves more than a temporary boost, said Kota Sentosa State assemblyman Wilfred Yap.

He urged a permanent, formula-based development allocation framework recognising Malaya, Sarawak, and Sabah as equal partners under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). “When Malaysia was formed in 1963, it was meant to be a partnership of three regions, not just a union of 13 states. Budget distribution should reflect this to ensure balanced growth and respect for MA63,” he said.

Yap highlighted that despite Sarawak’s contributions through natural resources, energy exports, and sound financial management, many communities, including parts of Kota Sentosa, still face challenges with ageing facilities, poor drainage, and underfunded infrastructure. He stressed that the RM6 billion allocation for Sarawak must be used efficiently and transparently to directly benefit local communities, avoiding delays from federal bureaucracy.

He called for a clear formula-based regional allocation under Article 112D of the Federal Constitution, greater autonomy in sectors like health, education, and public works, and stronger local oversight to ensure funds reach the people effectively.

“Development for Sarawak is a rightful obligation of the Federation to its founding regions,” Yap added, noting that the state’s journey toward full fiscal and administrative empowerment is far from complete.