Public Works Minister, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi hinted at the possibility of Sarawak introducing its own currency following the uncertain economy in Malaysia. - BERNAMA file photo
Minister of Public Works, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi hinted at the possibility of Sarawak introducing its own currency following the uncertain economy in Malaysia.
He said, it is one of the measures that can be considered if the economy continues to be less encouraging.
"If Sarawak's economy is so good but the country's economy is the opposite, maybe the state will have its own currency.
"I hope people don't call me a traitor to the country. But I'm serious. If we are so good at developing the economy, by calculation the national economy should be strong," he said.
He said this during a special podcast broadcast with Bual Studio and Reka Sound for Merdeka and Malaysia Day titled 'From Malaya to Malaysia: 60 Years'.
Nanta, who is also the Secretary General of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), insisted that the overall income including Sarawak's economy is increasing but it is necessary to analyze in more detail the level of people's lives before implementing it.
"If Sarawak is better than others, why not (introduce its own currency)? This is what I am trying to emphasize.
"However, when examining per capita income, it turns out that there are still areas where people continue to experience poverty," he said.
In the meantime, Nanta also stated that Sarawak is led by the Premier of Sarawak, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is a strong and capable leader in pushing the state's economy to a higher level.
In July, Abang Johari informed that the state of Kenyalang is now recognized as one of the highest income based on the latest World Bank data.
According to the World Bank's Chief Malaysian Economist, Dr Apurva Sanghi, Sarawak is now a high-income state because its gross national income (GNI) per capita exceeds US$13,205 (RM61,608).
Source: Sinar Harian
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