KUCHING, Feb. 8 -- In his Chinese New Year message, Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said that the proposed acquisition of three major entities by the state government within this year will be the strategic platforms that will create an ecosystem to uplift the economy to the next level.

He said the takeover of Bintulu Port and MASWings from the federal government and acquisition of majority shares in a commercial bank will also complete the state government's ambition to create a wholesome environment for progress and advancement.

He said the time has come for the state government to take back Bintulu Port from the federal government after its establishment some 43 years ago.

"This is not only because it should be under Sarawak's pow...