Italian industrial companies keen on enhancing collab with Sarawak — Ambassador

KUCHING (March 4): Major Italian industrial companies have expressed interest in strengthening strategic collaboration with Sarawak, particularly in supporting the state’s aspiration to become a clean energy hub in Southeast Asia.

This was conveyed during a courtesy call by Italian Ambassador to Malaysia Raffaele Langella on Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar at the latter’s official residence in Kasuma Resort, Petra Jaya yesterday.

Also present to receive the newly-appointed ambassador was Wan Junaidi’s wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

During the meeting, the ambassador conveyed the readiness of leading Italian industrial players in exploring opportunities in Sarawak, particularly in green energy initiatives.

Wan Junaidi highlighted that Sarawak holds significant potential in green hydrogen production and renewable energy development, in line with the state’s sustainable development agenda.

Both sides also exchanged views on other areas of mutual interest, including trade, higher education, biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability.

The discussion further touched on prospects for cooperation in culture and tourism, including efforts to attract more Italian visitors to Sarawak, especially in the ecotourism and heritage segments.

Wan Junaidi and Fauziah expressed hope that collaboration between Sarawak and Italy would continue to be strengthened for the benefit of both sides.

Accompanying Langella during the courtesy call was Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sarawak Regional Office director Dato Fenny Nuli.