Some who own land are classed as poor, says Abang Jo

 

Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg said he had discussed with the prime minister about the state government’s intention to conduct a study on poverty in the state. (Bernama pic)

KUCHING: The Sarawak government will engage professional researchers to conduct a comprehensive and accurate study on the extent of poverty in the state, said Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg.

He said the study would not be based solely on statistical data but would require a more thorough investigation. He said the poverty status statistics currently used for the state includes those who own assets such as land.

“In Sarawak, many people own assets but are still categorised as poor,” he told reporters after attending the Aidilfitri open house for the Stakan state constituency.

He was responding to a statement by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today that the federal government wanted to completely eradicate hardcore poverty in the country, especially in Sabah, Sarawak, Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah.

Abang Johari said he had discussed with Anwar about the state government’s intention to conduct a comprehensive study to provide more accurate data in relation to poverty in Sarawak this year. - FMT