Abang Johari signs the Dewan Premier Sarawak plaque. Photo: Information Department.

The launch was officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at a ceremony today, held in conjunction with the Land and Survey (LANDAS) Summit 2026 at a hotel here.

The Dewan Premier Sarawak, located in UTM’s campus in Skudai, Johor Bahru, recognises a RM5 million contribution from the Sarawak government through collaborative satellite laboratory initiatives under UTM’s Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying and the Sarawak Land and Survey Department. The contribution also includes funding for the Premier Sarawak Chair Grant, supporting 13 research projects.

At the same event, Abang Johari also launched the Sarawak Land and Survey Department Strategic Plan (2026–2030), a comprehensive guiding document aimed at driving state land governance over the next five years.

Touching on land administration, Abang Johari stressed that it is a major trust that requires officers to uphold the highest standards of integrity, honesty and accountability, with a consistent zero-tolerance approach towards corruption and abuse of power to ensure a clean and credible public service.

“In a world that is constantly changing, we can no longer depend solely on conventional methods. Innovation and continuous improvement must become part of organisational culture,” he said, adding that the adoption of technology, data analytics and best practices would enhance service effectiveness.

Abang Johari also emphasised the importance of human capital, describing it as the most valuable asset in ensuring an effective land administration system.

He said the strength of the Land and Survey Department lies in the competence, integrity and dedication of its workforce.

“Officers must not only be technically proficient, but also people-friendly, open-minded, innovative and service-oriented,” he said.

On governance and service delivery, Abang Johari said public trust in the land administration system must be preserved through efficiency, transparency, professionalism and integrity, warning that delays, unclear procedures or inconsistent decision-making could undermine confidence.

He added that the service delivery system must continue to be strengthened through process improvements, clearer guidelines and the cultivation of a high-performance work culture.