By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 6: The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has expressed strong confidence and excitement over Sarawak’s potential as a strategic partner, given the State’s pivotal role in the development of the energy sector and its importance in advancing regional connectivity in ASEAN.
According to Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, the international financial institution highlighted that Sarawak’s strategic location and forward-looking development agenda make it an ideal collaborator for initiatives in future infrastructure and clean energy technologies.
AIIB representative Kim See Lim said the visit to Sarawak is part of a series of official AIIB engagements in Malaysia, aimed at gaining first-hand insights into the country’s development aspirations and identifying opportunities for strategic collaboration in line with the bank’s mandate.
“We are honoured to be in Sarawak. This visit aims to understand Malaysia’s development aspirations and explore how AIIB can work together to support the agenda,” she said during a press conference following a courtesy call on Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Satria Pertiwi Complex today.
Kim added that discussions with the Premier have reinforced AIIB’s confidence in Sarawak’s development trajectory, particularly the State’s commitment to investing in next-generation technologies based on renewable energy.
“Sarawak’s desire to invest in next-generation technologies, especially renewable energy, aligns closely with AIIB’s mandate, which focuses on financing and supporting future infrastructure,” she said.
She also stressed that AIIB prioritises not only planning and vision but the tangible implementation of high-impact projects.
“It’s not just vision and discussions that matter; it’s about turning these plans into real, impactful projects,” Kim explained.
Key areas of potential cooperation discussed include energy transition initiatives such as hydrogen development, carbon capture and management, and new-generation fuels for aviation, transport, and ports. The discussions also covered the regional connectivity agenda, particularly energy and transport networks.
“All these initiatives aim to make Sarawak more resilient and sustainable, while strengthening its strategic role in ASEAN’s connectivity landscape,” she said. — DayakDaily
