By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Feb 28: Sarawak is ready to lead the way as the gateway to Asean’s sustainable future and strengthening the region’s global economic influence as Asean, home to over 650 million people with a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) exceeding USD3 trillion, stands on the brink of a new economic era.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that Sarawak’s commitment to green energy, digital innovation, and strategic investments is not just about Sarawak, but strengthening Asean’s role in the global economy.
“To businesses, investors, and policymakers in this room – Sarawak is open for business. We are not just offering opportunities but a clear, stable, and growth-driven environment where investments flourish.
“Whether in hydrogen energy, AI-driven industries, or high-value manufacturing, Sarawak is the launchpad for Asean’s future,” he said when delivering his keynote address at the Asean Sarawak Business and Economic Forum 2025 held at a hotel here today.
As Asean advances its long-term vision for connectivity, resilience, and inclusivity, Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak’s leadership in green energy, the hydrogen economy, digital innovation, aerospace, and sustainable agriculture.
These initiatives, he said, will position Sarawak as a catalyst for regional progress, accelerating Asean’s transition to a more sustainable and technology-driven future.
“Our vision is clear – to establish Sarawak as the Gateway to Asean’s Sustainable Future by leveraging our strengths in renewable energy, digital transformation, and trade connectivity,” he affirmed.
With the economic centre shifting to Asia, particularly Asean, Abang Johari underscored Sarawak’s emergence as a key investment gateway.
“Strategic infrastructure development is at the heart of our investment strategy. We are pioneering a holistic green economy that integrates clean energy, circular economy practices, and environmental conservation.
“As Malaysia’s largest producer of renewable energy, over 70 per cent of our electricity comes from hydropower, making Sarawak one of Asean’s lowest carbon emitters in the power sector.
“By 2030, our installed capacity will reach 10GW and expand to 15GW by 2035, securing our place as Asean’s clean energy hub,” he shared.
He also highlighted that the upcoming Tanjung Embang Deep Sea Port will enhance regional trade connectivity. Additionally, the development of a new Kuching International Airport adjacent to the port will position Sarawak as a major integrated logistics hub for Asean.
“Foreign investments are already pouring in. In 2024 alone, Sarawak approved RM13.4 billion in new investments, spanning sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing, and high-tech industries,” he said.
Furthermore, he added that the acquisition of a 31.25 per cent stake in Affin Bank Berhad further strengthens Sarawak’s financial ecosystem, supporting businesses as well as small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with improved access to capital—crucial for upcoming strategic investments, including the airport and deep-sea port development in the next five years.
Recognising the need for better air connectivity, Abang Johari highlighted Sarawak’s acquisition of MASwings from the Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and the formation of AirBorneo as timely moves to enhance tourism, particularly medical tourism, while strengthening economic ties with Asean partners.
Sarawak also offers a thriving digital ecosystem, with tax incentives for tech startups, funding schemes for digital innovation, and public-private partnerships driving Industry 4.0 adoption. Whether in AI, fintech, or smart manufacturing, Sarawak is building a digital economy that will power Asean’s future.
For investors, Abang Johari reiterated that Sarawak is the perfect entry point into Asean.
“We are providing an ideal environment for companies looking to expand into the region. We are actively promoting business and investment collaboration through regional forum like BIMP-EAGA and SOSEK- MALINDO.
“The establishment of Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office in Singapore and Brunei as well as the upcoming office in Kalimantan, Indonesia, will strengthen our regional presence in Asean to attract more global investors and forge stronger economic ties,” he said.
Abang Johari expressed hope that the forum would mark the beginning of new partnerships and investments.
“Together, we can build an Asean economy that is resilient, sustainable, and future-ready – one that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and bold ambition.
“Sarawak stands ready. Asean stands ready. Let us move forward together towards a stronger, more connected, and prosperous future,” he urged.
The Asean Sarawak Business and Economic Forum 2025 drew over 200 business leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and stakeholders from across Asean.
Notable attendees included Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific president and Asean Economic Club (AEC) chairman Tan Sri Michael Yeoh, and Asean Business Club (ABC) president and Institute for Capital Market Research Malaysia (ICMR) chairman Tan Sri Dr Munir Majid.
Under the theme “Collaborative Growth in Asean’s Evolving Economic Landscape”, the forum spotlighted Sarawak’s strategic role in fostering regional cooperation and sustainable growth, particularly within the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA). — DayakDaily
