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By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING , Sept 6: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg asserts Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines need to have good transport connectivity, not only to boost trade, and investment with each other but also to strengthen their appeal as tourism destinations.
Abang Johari said when these countries are seamlessly connected, industries and markets can overlap to create new opportunities for trade investments and economic growth.
This integration allows for efficient movement of goods, capital and people, reducing trade barriers and increasing the region’s economic competitiveness, he said in his speech during the closing of Sarawak Transport Conference 2023 at Pullman Hotel here today.
Abang Johari pointed out that strong transport connectivity also ensures tourists can easily explore the beautiful and diverse landscapes and experiences offered by each country in the region.
“As a united tourist destination, where the visitor can move seamlessly from one destination to another within our region, we can attract a more diverse range of travellers and further boost the local economies of our participating nations.”
He stressed that within Borneo, there is Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
“The forthcoming relocation of Indonesia’s capital city to East Kalimantan on the Borneo Island can further underscore the significance of transboundary connectivity.
“This presents an opportunity to invest in infrastructure that can benefit Borneo and the entire region further solidifying our commitment to growth and development,” he said.
“A nation cannot stand alone, it thrives in the embrace of a global community. That is why the transport sector is critical to serve as a bridge that connects nations to foster collaboration and integration among neighbouring countries and regions such as BIMP-EAGA.” he said.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin and Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki were among those present. — DayakDaily
