By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 16: With several of Sarawak’s large-scale infrastructure projects nearing completion, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has called on local contractors to expand into international markets rather than continue depending on a shrinking pool of domestic opportunities.
According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report, Dr Sim acknowledged contractors’ hesitation to embark on new projects due to high investment risks and potentially limited returns, particularly as several major infrastructure projects near completion.
“Major projects such as the Coastal Highway and the Second Trunk Road (STR) are expected to be completed next year, while the RM17 billion Pan Borneo Project is currently in its final phase.
“Only the deep-sea port and international airport projects remain in the planning stage. When all these projects are completed, there will be no more major projects on offer.
“So, contractors are worried about the returns if they continue to invest heavily,” he said.
Dr Sim spoke at the swearing-in ceremony for Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) councillors for the 2025–2028 term, held at the SMC Office in Sibu yesterday (April 15).
He further noted that while local contractors previously benefited from major infrastructure projects such as the Pan Borneo Highway, such opportunities are now becoming increasingly limited.
As such, he encouraged local contractors to enhance their competitiveness and leverage Sarawak as a launching pad to tap into overseas markets, including Indonesia.
The Deputy Premier also cited Chinese companies as an example, noting that their dominance in many large-scale projects in Sarawak stems from their boldness in venturing into the global market.
“20 years ago, who had heard of Chinese companies? Now they are executing the majority of large projects here. Perhaps we lack the know-how, or we are unable to offer prices as low as theirs. That’s the reality,” he added.
Meanwhile, Clarence Ting Ing Horh has been reappointed as SMC chairman for the 2025–2028 term, while Cr Mohd Abdullah Izkandar B Roseley was named Deputy Chairman.
A total of 26 councillors were sworn in for the new term, marking the start of a fresh three-year tenure. — DayakDaily
