STIDC signs agreement with PMW International to boost Tanjung Manis industrial development

KUCHING (April 9): The Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) has signed a shareholders’ agreement with PMW International Sdn Bhd to advance industrial development in Tanjung Manis.

In a statement, STIDC said the agreement marks a key step in positioning Tanjung Manis as a gateway for industrial and economic expansion in Sarawak’s central region.

The signing ceremony was held at Wisma Sumber Alam, STIDC headquarters in Petra Jaya here on Wednesday.

STIDC general manager Datu Zainal Abidin Abdullah said Tanjung Manis remains a priority area entrusted by the state government to drive rural growth and support the Tanjung Manis Economic Growth Area (T-Mega) project.

He said the collaboration reflects STIDC’s proactive approach in advancing industrial development through strategic partnerships.

“We are honoured to participate in this project through equity involvement in PMW Winabumi (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd, and we believe it will deliver meaningful value to both parties,” he said.

Zainal added that STIDC plays a crucial role in developing Sarawak’s timber and timber-based industries by facilitating industrial land and infrastructure, as well as supporting the state’s broader industrialisation agenda.

He noted that the collaboration aligns with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, particularly in boosting economic growth, increasing state revenue and promoting social inclusivity through job opportunities in Tanjung Manis.

“We are committed to opening doors for local communities by providing employment and skills development in this vital industrial hub,” he said.

Meanwhile, PMW International executive director Lee Hon Hwa said the company aims to produce made-in-Sarawak foundation piles, spun piles, square piles and concrete poles to support infrastructure growth in the state and region.

“Our products also cater to telecommunication towers, transmission and power distribution poles, street lighting and green energy solutions such as solar LED lighting,” he said.

Lee expressed hope for swift approvals to facilitate factory construction, noting that the sale and purchase agreement will be submitted soon.

“Construction is expected to take about a year, with operations targeted by end-2027 to begin production in Tanjung Manis.

“We have already conducted first-round interviews with local workers, who are excited about the job opportunities. Our presence is expected to attract more industrial players and uplift the region,” he added.

STIDC said the collaboration underscores its commitment to sustainable industrialisation while strengthening PMW’s role in enhancing local manufacturing capabilities.