Thumbs up to S’wak’s Foreign Ministry

KUCHING: Sarawak may set up a Foreign Ministry to spur the state forward internationally.

Sarawak is unique in several aspects including culturally, linguistically and way of governance.

There have been recent calls for the state to establish its equivalent of a Foreign Ministry to handle its diplomatic relations, considering its increasing prominence in international politics.

Recently, Syed Nizamuddin, a former Malaysian diplomat, said that Sarawak should play a more prominent role in Malaysia’s international diplomacy, given its unique cultural identity and distinct economic pursuits that influenced the state government’s decision-making in global affairs.

New Sarawak Tribune interviewed several members of the public to hear their views on the proposal.

Johnson Fung, 25, UNIMAS International Relations Graduate

Johnson Fung, 25
(UNIMAS International Relations graduate)

Sarawak has an active global presence; it is often establishing relations with other nations. Having its own foreign office will put the state in the limelight and attract more investors here.

Sasha Kho, 26, Entrepreneur

Sasha Kho, 26
(Entrepreneur)

The Foreign Ministry will provide a formal platform to represent Sarawak’s interest on the global stage, negotiate trade agreements, attract investments and foster diplomatic ties with other countries. It will also send a clear signal that the state is committed to international cooperation and engagements and open to partnerships and collaborations. But setting up a Foreign Ministry requires financial resources and administrative support.

Ian Jute, 26, Photographer

Ian Jute, 26
(Photographer)

Because of Sarawak’s active engagement in foreign activities such as Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS) in Singapore and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari’s frequent visits to Belgium, Norway and the United Kingdom, it is strategically beneficial for Sarawak to establish a new Foreign Ministry. This move can enhance the state’s diplomatic capabilities, allowing for more effective representation of Sarawak’s interests on the international stage. A dedicated Foreign Ministry will facilitate the formalisation of diplomatic relations, negotiation of agreement and participation in global forums, thereby strengthening Sarawak’s position in the evolving landscape of international relations.
However, careful consideration must be given to resource allocation to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the proposed Foreign Ministry.

Leandro Mcrae, 27, General Manager

Leandro Mcrae, 27
(General manager)

I agree that Sarawak should have a foreign ministry as it should be more autonomous in terms of dealing with another country in order to bring more benefits to the state. It will definitely help to improve the state’s economy and improve the lives of its people.