Sabah, Sarawak to formalise cross-Borneo economic cooperation to boost trade, SME growth

Ewon (second left) after beating the gong to mark the launch of the 17th DCCI-KCCI Gawai-Kaamatan Exhibition and Business Event on June 27, 2026.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 27: Sabah and Sarawak have agreed to formalise cross-regional economic cooperation in Borneo as a strategic move to strengthen trade, investment, and overall regional development.

Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister for Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Datuk Ewon Benedick said the agreement was reached following a courtesy call on Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan yesterday (June 26).

He said the collaboration will be strategically coordinated between Sabah’s Ministry of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship and Sarawak’s Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED) to drive both territories’ economic agendas.

“Sabah needs Sarawak, and Sarawak needs Sabah to ensure this Borneo territory develops more dynamically,” he said when officiating the 17th Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Gawai-Kaamatan Exhibition and Business Event here today.

Ewon noted that the joint organisation of the event by DCCI and KCCI reflects the strong ties and unity between Sabah and Sarawak.

He added that Gawai Dayak and Pesta Kaamatan have evolved beyond harvest celebrations into important platforms linking the economic, social, and cultural dimensions of the Borneo community.

“This two-day exhibition, featuring more than 50 exhibitors from Sabah and Sarawak, showcases handicrafts, agro-based products, food, and creative industries that reflect our rich cultural heritage.

“This diversity also serves as a catalyst for the growth of a distinctive, high-value local creative economy,” he said.

He also encouraged small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in both states to fully utilise cross-regional cooperation opportunities by exploring new markets, embracing digital technology, and strengthening strategic networks through business-matching sessions. — DayakDaily