Requesting the federal government to consider the matter, he said the projects included RM38.4 billion for the construction of 1,292km of new roads and upgrades to 4,782km of existing roads, and RM20 billion to achieve 100% clean water supply.

“It is estimated that more than 5,500 households still do not have electricity. Sarawak needs an allocation amounting to RM1.3 billion to achieve 100% 24-hour electricity supply in rural areas,” he said at the 13MP engagement session here today.

The text of his speech was read out by his deputy, Douglas Uggah Embas.

Abang Johari said RM7.89 billion was needed for the construction of new health facilities, as well as for upgrading, repairing and maintaining health facilities.

“The Sarawak government needs a total of RM5.2 billion to overcome the problem of dilapidated schools and RM54 million to address the shortage of science laboratories,” he said.

He said RM6.3 billion was needed for the construction of 1,800 telecommunication structures to ensure full internet coverage in Sarawak, in addition to RM140 million to carry out surveys of native customary rights land.

He also asked the federal government to consider the construction of 1,487km of border and feeder roads with an estimated cost of RM38 billion to preserve the country’s sovereignty.

Abang Johari said the Sarawak government wanted to develop a rice granary area costing about RM1 billion, RM500 million of which would be borne by the state. He hoped the remaining amount would be borne by the federal government.

“I hope the federal government will study and consider the needs of Sarawak. This is because Sarawak is one of the main contributors to the Malaysian economy. Sarawak’s prosperity will also prosper Malaysia,” he said.

The engagement session was also attended by economy minister Rafizi Ramli and his deputy, Hanifah Hajar Taib.