Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang has expressed his full support for the Sarawak 2026 Budget, while also raising several policy concerns and constituency needs during the Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Nineteenth Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.

Lo opened his debate by congratulating the Premier of Sarawak, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, on being awarded The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star by the Government of Japan. He also extended congratulations to the Speaker, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar, on his reappointment for a tenth consecutive term, describing the achievement as a reflection of the Speaker’s long standing stewardship and stability.

Lo voiced strong confidence in the 2026 Budget, which projects revenue of RM13.05 billion and an expenditure of RM12.91 billion, resulting in a RM144 million surplus. He said the state continues to perform well despite global uncertainties, with Sarawak having already collected RM10.3 billion in revenue as of October 2025.

According to him, the state’s fiscal strength is driven by discipline, foresight and unity of purpose. He highlighted reforms such as the expansion of the State Sales Tax on petroleum products, the State Ownership Policy, the return of Bintulu Port, the consolidation of Sarawak Energy under state control and the strengthening of PETROS under the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016. These measures, he said, reinforce Sarawak’s autonomy and long term economic foundation.

Lo also noted Sarawak’s progress in digital and high technology development, citing the unveiling of the KETEQ AI Power Converter during the Premier’s recent mission to the United Kingdom. The Semiconductor Mastery Training Programme and talent development initiatives under SAIC, he said, show the state’s commitment to building a skilled workforce in fields such as engineering and artificial intelligence.

On welfare and education, Lo praised the government’s comprehensive support system, which includes free tertiary education for 64 courses in state owned institutions beginning in 2026, free laptops for eligible students, annual allowances for Anak Sarawak studying nationwide, stipends for needy students and subsidised return air travel for those studying in West Malaysia. He also noted ongoing social programmes such as the Baby Endowment, postnatal care support, the Kenyalang Gold Card and rental assistance for B40 households.

Lo then raised concerns about the Sarawak Malaysia My Second Home programme, stating that the requirement for dependent children to leave the programme at age 21, while being ineligible to apply independently until age 30, causes hardship to families who have long lived and contributed in Sarawak. He urged the state to review the policy to promote family unity and talent retention.

Addressing another issue, Lo relayed feedback from civil servants under the Professional and Management service track. Those at Grade 52 and Grade 13 expressed disappointment for being excluded from the recent one off promotion exercise to Grade 54 and Grade 14 despite meeting the necessary requirements. He called for fairness and consistency in civil service career progression.

Speaking on local matters in Batu Kitang, Lo reiterated the need for elevated pedestrian walkways along Jalan Datuk Tawi Sli and Jalan Datuk Kalong Ningkan to improve safety for schoolchildren and senior citizens. He also highlighted drainage issues in Taman Kong Phin and Taman Fock San, water supply concerns in Kampung Bunga Rampai and the 10th Mile Bazaar area, and the need for improved pedestrian crossings near Cyberjaya College and along Jalan Landeh. Lo also sought clarification on the timeline for tar sealing works on the Batu Kitang Bridge access road leading to Kampung Haji Baki.

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