MIRI, Feb 4: Sarawak government is looking into set up a trade and tourism office in Brunei, following the success of its office in Singapore.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said Brunei has shown interest and has been looking into Sarawak’s agriculture products.
He hoped that the trade office, similar operations to the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (Statos), will boost trade and tourism activities between the neighbouring countries.
“Our next office will be in Brunei, as we believe it can strengthen and develop new trade, investment and tourism between the two sides.
“We will also extend our coastal road from Miri-Limbang-Lawas to Brunei to have better road connectivity,” he said at the Federation of Miri Division Chinese Association Chinese New Year celebration here.
The Singapore trade office provides trade advisory services for importers, exporters and investors who are interested in tapping into the exciting and diverse range of Sarawak products and services on offer.
Abang Johari said the setting up of Statos has shown positive success based on the results of Singapore importing Sarawak’s tilapia fish and soon, chicken eggs.
He added that two Singaporean ministers who visited Sarawak recently, commented that they preferred the state’s tilapia compared to those from Peninsular Malaysia.
“They said our tilapia fishes are tastier, with no mud smell. This is because our tilapia grows in a hydro dam, not in ponds like those in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Now Singapore is looking into importing our chicken eggs because they need about 200,000 per day. We also hope to be able to produce more products for the export market,” he continued.
Meanwhile, on the Chinese New Year dinner, Abang Johari assured that the Sarawak government, led by Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), appreciates the Chinese community for their long continuous support all these years.
“I sincerely appreciate the Chinese for supporting GPS. We are committed in development for the people of Sarawak and will continue our efforts to do so.
“We have put aside substantial sum to develop our infrastructures, road, electricity and water supply for Sarawak, but please be patient because it takes time. We cannot do magic, but we will do it.”
He added that GPS is also emphasising on modern agriculture based on advanced technologies to drive rural economy.
With Sarawakian support, he believed that the aim for Sarawak to be a develop state by 2030 can be achieved. — DayakDaily
