By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 21: A total of 37 Sarawak companies are currently listed on Bursa Malaysia, with a combined market capitalisation of approximately RM24 billion, reflecting the growing role of capital markets in supporting the State’s business growth.
Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak (MINTRED) Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said five Sarawak-related listings had successfully raised RM307.4 million since 2024, highlighting the potential of capital markets to provide businesses with access to growth financing.
“My Ministry will work with Bursa Malaysia, investment banks and advisers to prepare more companies to access capital markets,” he said during his ministerial winding-up speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUNS) sitting today.
He said the efforts would include strengthening corporate governance, financial reporting and business planning to improve companies’ readiness for listing and expansion.
Awang Tengah, who is also Deputy Premier, said Sarawak was also pursuing its target under the Sarawak Bumiputera 3-7-20 Framework, which aims to have three Bumiputera companies listed on Bursa Malaysia, establish seven Bumiputera Regional Business Champions and transform 20 per cent of Bumiputera microenterprises into private limited companies by 2030.
“We will give particular attention to building competitive Bumiputera enterprises and help more Bumiputera businesses grow beyond micro and small-scale operations into higher-value industries and regional markets,” he added.
He noted that nine Sarawak Bumiputera companies had been identified as having listing potential, while United Asiapac Energy Berhad achieved a significant milestone with its listing on Bursa Malaysia’s ACE Market on Sept 14, 2026.
In addition, he informed that 22 high-performing companies with annual turnover exceeding RM10 million had been identified for further development, focusing on strengthening business capacity, expanding markets and increasing participation in high-value industries.
Awang Tengah said Sarawak would also seek to broaden Bumiputera participation in strategic sectors, particularly oil and gas services and equipment.
Moving forward, he said MINTRED would strengthen its enterprise growth pathway — Start, Strengthen, Scale, Supply and Internationalise — with support measures covering financing, technology, certification, market access and participation in strategic supply chains. — DayakDaily
