Sarawak Tourism and Trade Ofice Brunei Darussalam launched, eyeing growth in cross-border collaboration

Abang Johari (third left) flanked by Awang Tengah on his right addressing a press conference after the launching of STATOB in Brunei Darussalam on Oct 3, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

BRUNEI, Oct 3: The newly launched Sarawak Tourism and Trade Ofice Brunei Darussalam (STATOB) will play a pivotal role in enhancing and deepening strategic economic partnership between Sarawak and Brunei across various sectors.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan highlighted that Sarawak’s total trade with Brunei saw an impressive 23.8 per cent increase in 2023, reaching RM3.76 billion.

“In addition, Sarawak welcomed approximately 1.3 million visitors from Brunei in 2023, the highest number on record,” he added.

He emphasised the potential for further growth in tourism through joint promotions and collaborative events, such as business gatherings, sports competitions, and initiatives like sailing or yachting races in Brunei Bay or cross-border marathon events from Lawas to the Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Bridge.

Awang Tengah, who is also Sarawak’s Minister of International Trade, Industry, and Investment (MINTRED), delivered these remarks at the STATOB launch, officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at its new premises today.

He expressed optimism about expanding cooperation in energy, telecommunications, tourism, agriculture, trade, and investment.

“Our entrepreneurs, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), will greatly benefit from these initiatives, promoting their products and services in larger markets such as Borneo and the BIMP-EAGA region. Sarawak’s strategic location and international ports and airports will serve as key gateways,” he said.

Awang Tengah also conveyed confidence in the Premier’s leadership in exploring new opportunities in the digital economy and green technologies.

“STATOB is a major step toward realizing this vision. It will not only strengthen economic ties and foster sustainable development but also promote growth across major sectors, including SMEs.

“Additionally, it will bolster cultural and heritage promotion, bringing shared benefits to both regions,” he concluded.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah and Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki were among those present. — DayakDaily