Chieng calls for clear action plan for Sibu SEZ

THE federal and Sarawak governments should establish a joint implementation committee and a clear, time-bound action plan to ensure the proposed Sibu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) delivers tangible economic benefits to the town and central Sarawak.

Bukit Assek assemblyman Chieng Jin Ek said the action plan should include measurable targets for investment, job creation, local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) participation and infrastructure delivery.

He said the focus must now shift from announcements to implementation to ensure the Sibu SEZ becomes a catalyst for economic growth.

“The success of Sibu SEZ must not be measured by announcements alone, but by the investments secured, businesses established, jobs created and improvements experienced by the people of Sibu,” he said when debating the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting today (Oct 14).

Chieng welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement during the tabling of the 2027 Federal Budget that formal negotiations with the Sarawak government would begin on establishing the Sibu SEZ.

He said the move followed Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s announcement during the Sarawakku Sayang programme in Sibu on July 11, 2026.

The Premier subsequently reaffirmed the importance of the proposed zone in his 2027 Sarawak Budget, highlighting its potential to transform Sibu into a modern engine of economic growth for central Sarawak.

However, Chieng said the people of Sibu were concerned that the initiative might remain on paper without concrete action and effective implementation.

He also proposed establishing a Sibu SEZ One-Stop Investment Centre to streamline the investment process and reduce administrative barriers.

The centre should coordinate federal and state approvals, business licensing, land applications, utility connections and workforce requirements, supported by clear service standards, transparent procedures and processing timelines.

Chieng also called for targeted federal tax incentives for eligible investors undertaking redevelopment and commercial projects under the Bukit Assek Redevelopment Project.

He said measures such as investment tax allowances or time-limited tax relief could encourage private-sector investment in modern commercial premises, business facilities and other economic activities that generate quality employment.

By aligning federal fiscal incentives with Sarawak’s urban redevelopment plans, he said, Bukit Assek could become an integral part of Sibu’s wider economic transformation rather than merely an urban renewal project.

“Let us turn this commitment into concrete action and make Sibu a genuine engine of economic growth for central Sarawak,” he said.