Sarawak’s untapped potential draws international investments, Tourism Minister calls for greater economic synergy

Harry (fourth right) together with Dr Sim (centre) and other distinguished guests at the banquet marking 50 years of China-Malaysia diplomatic ties which also coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival at a restaurant on Sept 20, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 21: Sarawak’s market holds significant untapped potential which as a result has attracted substantial international investments, including interest from Chinese firms seeking business opportunities and establishing factories.

Malaysia Minister of Tourism, Art and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing highlighted the strong presence of Chinese contracting companies in large-scale infrastructure projects across Sarawak, which have notably improved the quality of life for locals while expanding economic opportunities and resources.

“Given China’s significant advancements in large-scale construction projects and technological development in recent years, Sarawak should take advantage of these developments to improve its infrastructure and address technical challenges,” he said.

His remarks were delivered by Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Henry Harry Jinep 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 held at a restaurant here last night (Sept 20).

The celebration was officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, representing Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Tiong highlighted the success of Sarawak-China cooperation in various sectors, including the development of hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles, manufactured by China.

“This stands as a milestone in Malaysia-China collaboration as Sarawak is the first region outside of China to adopt the zero-emission public transport system,” he said.

He also noted Sarawak’s leadership in Southeast Asia’s green economy, particularly in addressing climate change through the production and use of clean energy, with nearly 70 per cent of Sarawak’s power coming from renewable hydropower.

“This has not only reduced Sarawak’s carbon emissions but has also allowed us to explore green hydrogen production and large-scale floating solar projects,” he added.

Tiong thus underscored the importance of international cooperation in today’s global landscape, emphasising key areas such as the green economy and sustainable energy development.

“We must explore how to leverage each nation’s economic strengths to create synergies where one plus one is greater than two through collaborative efforts,” he said.

He urged Chinese business organisations, particularly the Malaysia-China Import and Export Chamber of Commerce in Kuching and Sarawak, to seize the growing opportunities and actively participate in trade cooperation across diverse sectors.

This collaboration, Tiong said, would drive greater economic integration between Sarawak and China, fostering shared prosperity and long-term success.

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