Premier: China’s RM19.9 bln investment boost Sarawak’s economy, creates 10,000 jobs

Dr Sim (sixth left) together with Xi (fifth right) and other distinguished guests during the presentation of memento at the gala banquet to mark 50 years of China-Malaysia diplomatic ties on Sept 20, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 21: China has invested over RM19.9 billion across various sectors in Sarawak, including solar, steel, and wood-based manufacturing, creating more than 10,000 jobs and significantly boosting the region’s economy.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised the importance of this strategic partnership with China, noting its vital role in helping Sarawak achieve its goals of becoming a competitive digital economy and a regional hub for green energy production and distribution.

“We have already seen major successes in the hydropower sector with projects like Bakun, Murum, and Baleh, demonstrating Sarawak’s potential as an energy powerhouse in Asean,” he said.

Abang Johari made these remarks in his speech text read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at the ‘Beneath the Mid-Autumn Moon: Malaysia and China – A Bond of Friendship, A Future of Success’ banquet jointly organised by the Kuching China Trades Importers and Exporters Association and Consulate General of The People’s Republic of China last night (Sept 20).

In addition to economic collaboration, Premier stressed the value of cooperation in developing human capital, revealing ongoing discussions for Fudan University to establish a branch campus in Sarawak.

“Sarawak welcomes prestigious universities establishing campuses locally to prepare Sarawakians for an increasingly competitive and innovation-driven global economy,” he affirmed.

Abang Johari expressed his hope for the continued flourishing of Sarawak-China relations to benefit future generations.

“Happy Mid-Autumn Festival. I wish you all health, peace, and prosperity,” he concluded.

Deputy Transport Minister Dato Henry Harry Jinep, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching His Excellency Xing Weiping, Kuching Traders Importers and Exporters Association president Datuk Yii Ming Tang, and organising chairman for the celebration Dennis Tan Hock Beng were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily