Wilfred Yap Refutes Claims of Secrecy Over Sarawak’s Financial Information

suppadmin | December 6, 2025

Kota Sentosa State assemblyman Wilfred Yap has dismissed allegations by Chong Chieng Jen that the Sarawak Government is being secretive about the state’s debt level, repayment obligations and interest payments.

Yap said all the information raised by Chong is already publicly disclosed and tabled each year in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly during the presentation of the Annual Supply Bill. He explained that the details are presented in the Command Papers and Detailed Estimates that accompany the state budget.

According to him, these documents contain full disclosure of state revenue, operating and development expenditure, financial commitments, fiscal position, economic outlook and policy justifications. He added that they are debated openly and made accessible to every elected representative, including Chong himself.

“If he has failed to read or understand the documents provided, it is not the fault of the Government,” Yap said.

He emphasised that the Sarawak Government has consistently practised transparency through its annual budgeting process, financial statements and Auditor General reports, all of which form the official legislative record.

Yap said it is irresponsible for Chong to allege secrecy when the information is presented at every budget sitting.

He also criticised Chong for repeatedly politicising routine fiscal measures such as land premium adjustments, assessment rates, water tariffs and regulatory fees, saying these are part of long term financial sustainability and development planning.

Yap added that the state remains committed to maintaining strong reserves, stable growth and responsible budgeting under the leadership of the Premier, Abang Johari Tun Openg, and Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah Embas.

Commenting on the Premier’s recent analogy on borrowing, Yap said it was simply an attempt to explain fiscal concepts in a relatable manner. He described Chong’s interpretation of the analogy as an attempt to twist the matter for political effect.

“The GPS Government has always been accountable to the people. What it will not do is entertain sensational statements that ignore facts and undermine public confidence,” he said.