By Karen Bong
KUCHING, April 24: Sarawak is strengthening collaboration with fellow Asean nations to boost trade, investment and tourism on a win-win basis, leveraging its strategic location, abundant resources, and deep-rooted cultural ties to drive regional growth and uplift livelihoods across the region.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that Sarawak is implementing bold developments aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, including the launch of Air Borneo in 2026 and the construction of a new international airport and Deep-Sea Port at Tanjung Embang.
“We are committed to enhancing air connectivity, especially to major and capital cities across Asean, making travel and business faster and easier.
“These infrastructure developments are part of Sarawak’s vision to become a regional aviation and marine hub, attracting greater investor confidence and tourism,” he said in his text speech delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan at the Gala Dinner in conjunction with the 33rd Asean Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting held at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Complex tonight.
Abang Johari also highlighted Sarawak’s geographical advantage, sharing land borders with Brunei Darussalam and Kalimantan, Indonesia, which opens doors for cross-border development.
“The relocation of Indonesia’s capital to Kalimantan will generate significant economic spillover effects for Borneo Island,” he said, pointing to opportunities in trade, infrastructure and investment.
He emphasised Sarawak’s proactive role in BIMP-EAGA (Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area), calling it a vital subregional initiative that complements Asean’s broader integration goals.
“By strengthening this platform, we can unlock new potential and build a stronger, more connected, prosperous, and resilient Asean.”
On domestic development, Abang Johari reaffirmed that Sarawak’s progress must benefit all citizens, including those in rural regions.
He cited ongoing mega infrastructure projects such as the Pan Borneo Highway, Second Trunk Road, Coastal Road Network, Northern Coastal Highway, and Sabah-Sarawak Link Roads as transformative drivers of connectivity and economic expansion.
He further pointed out that Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) aligns closely with the Asean Community Vision 2045, as both frameworks emphasize economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability.
“Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage, biodiversity and warm hospitality reflect the very spirit of ASEAN’s unity in diversity.
“I trust that during your time here, you have experienced the unique charm and heartfelt welcoming spirit that Sarawak proudly shares with the region,” he said.
The Premier expressed confidence that the ASCC meeting would foster new connections and partnerships to bring Sarawak and Asean closer together, paving the way for inclusive and lasting regional growth.
“The ASCC is one of the three main pillars of the Asean Community, dedicated to building a people-centered, inclusive, sustainable, and resilient Aseanfor all.
“We are confident that your time here will be meaningful and productive. May this meeting foster greater Asean cooperation and let Sarawak’s spirit inspire us to build a brighter future together,” he said.
Malaysia Minister of Tourism, Art and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Performing Arts and Creative Industry Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, and Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar were among those present. — DayakDaily
