A majority of Malaysian state governments registered higher revenue collections in 2024, with Sarawak leading the nation in both revenue generated and overall budget surplus, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM).
Only two states—Sabah and Pahang—bucked the nationwide growth trend, reporting declines in revenue collection compared to the previous year.
Sarawak recorded the highest revenue collection among all states, pulling in RM14.2 billion in 2024.
Sabah secured the second spot with RM6.8 billion in revenue despite its overall decline in collection. Selangor ranked third nationwide, posting RM2.9 billion in state revenue.
In tandem with improved revenue streams, almost all state governments achieved a fiscal surplus for the year 2024.
- Sarawak: RM1.5 billion
- Sabah: RM470.9 million
- Terengganu: RM212.2 million
- Selangor: RM142.0 million
- Johor: RM103.6 million
On the other hand, DOSM noted that two state governments operated in the red during the same period. Pulau Pinang registered the largest deficit at RM174.1 million, while Perlis recorded a deficit of RM16.1 million.
