Sarawak wants stronger alliance with China to boost Post Covid-19 Development Strategy, says Premier

KUCHING (Jan 30): Sarawak is seeking deeper collaboration with China as the state accelerates the implementation of its Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, said the Premier.

Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said cooperation between Sarawak and China has expanded across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, manufacturing, infrastructure development, renewable energy, tourism, and digital technology.

“We welcome the increasing interest of Chinese investors and enterprises in Sarawak, and we value the trust and confidence they have placed in our state,” he said in a speech for the Spring Festival Reception 2026 hosted by the Chinese Consulate-General here on Thursday night.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian read the speech.

Under PCDS 2030, Abang Johari said Sarawak aims to become a prosperous, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable region by 2030.

“We are transforming Sarawak’s economy through digitalisation, innovation, and high-value industries, positioning the state as a hub for advanced manufacturing, hydrogen, and renewable energy,” he said.

He highlighted Sarawak’s commitment to responsible and low-carbon development, with hydropower and other renewable energy sources serving as key drivers of growth.

“Sarawak’s abundant natural resources, combined with political stability and good governance, provide strong opportunities for strategic partnerships with China, particularly in green technology, clean energy, and sustainable industrial development,” he said.

He cited one of the flagship initiatives under this green transition, the Kuching Low Carbon Hub (KLCH), which is a strategic industrial ecosystem designed to attract low-carbon and high-value industries.

Through Petros, he said Sarawak has entered into a framework agreement with China Jiangsu International Economic and Technical Cooperation Group Ltd, along with several memoranda of understanding with leading Chinese companies in the green economy.

“These collaborations will support investments in clean energy solutions, sustainable industrial technologies, and low-carbon manufacturing, helping to catalyse billions of ringgit in green investments over the coming decade,” he said.

Beyond energy and industry, Abang Johari said there is strong potential for deeper collaboration in education and technology.

“We see opportunities with China in student exchanges, technical training, and knowledge sharing, particularly in science, technology, and innovation, including digital technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing,” he said.

He added that partnerships between universities and technical institutions, joint research initiatives, and industry-linked training programmes would help equip Sarawak’s youth with future-ready skills while strengthening academic and technological ties between Sarawak and China.

Abang Johari also pointed out the importance of cultural and tourism exchanges, expressing hope to welcome more visitors from China to experience Sarawak’s rainforests, rich heritage, and warm hospitality.

“Strategic partnerships with China will play a vital role in helping Sarawak achieve inclusive and sustainable growth while preparing our people and industries for the challenges of the future,” he added.