KUCHING, March 20: Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has reiterated the establishment of close cooperation with Indonesia, emphasising the involvement of Sarawak companies in business ventures within the Kalimantan region.
Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak Energy’s investments in power generation in Melinau, East Kalimantan, noting its 25 per cent stake in hydro development aimed at generating energy for Kalimantan.
“There is a proposal from the Indonesian side to further develop this hydro, and since SEB already holds a 25 per cent stake, both parties will collaborate on development in the region.
“With the opening of borders and Indonesia allowing our planes to land in Pontianak and from Pontianak to Sarawak, it will provide more opportunities for closer cooperation between Indonesia and the State,” he stated.
His comments came in response to a suggestion by the Malaysian Ambassador to Indonesia, who recently visited Kalimantan and proposed that Malaysian companies invest in East Kalimantan after officiating Sumbangsih Raya 2024 at Wisma Bapa today.
Abang Johari also emphasised Sarawak’s assistance in the development of the region, particularly North and East Kalimantan, despite most of the State’s businesses being in West Kalimantan due to proximity.
“In addition to Sarawak’s networking with the Indonesia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), the State government has tasked the Dewan Usaha Bumiputra Sarawak (DUBS) and the Sarawak Chinese Chamber of Commerce to explore other areas, including the export of goods to the country,” he added. — DayakDaily
