By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 8: A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and five Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) signed between Japanese and Sarawakian companies during Sarawak Week at the Malaysia Pavilion, World Expo Osaka 2025 in Japan, underscore Sarawak’s rising profile as an attractive investment destination, particularly for Japanese investors.
According to a media release today, the agreements span strategic sectors such as manufacturing, renewable energy, sustainable forestry, and tourism, further strengthening Japan’s expanding investment footprint in Sarawak.
The MOA and MOUs include collaborations in the Sarawak–Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) programme, bamboo-based forestry initiatives, and energy transition projects, reflecting Sarawak’s readiness to co-create a sustainable, innovation-led future in alignment with the Expo’s theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”.
Representing the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Premier and Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan officiated the opening of Sarawak Week and reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to deepening ties with Japan, particularly in digital technology, green hydrogen and ammonia production, and renewable energy.
“Sarawak and Japan enjoy a long-standing, strategic partnership. Japan remains one of our top trading partners, with trade amounting to RM31.6 billion in 2024.
“Since 2011, Japanese investments in our manufacturing sector have reached RM13.8 billion, generating over 4,000 job opportunities. These figures are more than just numbers, they reflect deep trust and shared progress,” said Abang Johari in a speech delivered by Awang Tengah.
The Premier also highlighted the strength of the 67-year Malaysia–Japan friendship, which has evolved into a strategic partnership underpinned by key initiatives such as the Look East Policy and the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC).
“Japanese investments in Sarawak continue to grow, driven by our shared commitment to sustainability, technological advancement, and mutual trust,” he added.
Running from Aug 4 to 10, Sarawak Week has drawn thousands of international visitors to the Malaysia Pavilion, one of the most visited pavilions at the Expo. Since its opening in April, the pavilion has welcomed over 2.2 million visitors, far surpassing its initial target of 1.5 million.
Expressing his gratitude, Abang Johari said: “To every visitor who queued in rain or shine—terima kasih and arigatou gozaimasu. Your support has made this one of the most visited pavilions at the Expo.”
The Sarawak showcase at the pavilion features a blend of immersive digital exhibitions, cultural performances, and pocket talks on investment, tourism, and talent development. A standout highlight is Kristy AI, Sarawak’s multilingual smart engagement ambassador, who interacts with visitors and provides engaging insights into the State’s unique offerings.
The Premier expressed hope that Sarawak Week would serve as a catalyst for new partnerships, collaborative innovation, and enduring connections between Sarawak, Japan, and the global community.
“May this week mark the beginning of fresh collaborations, shared innovation, and lasting friendships that pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, Deputy Minister of Tourism Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy Minister of Utility (Sarawak Energy and PETROS) Datuk Ibrahim Baku and senior officials from Sarawak government and agencies were among the delegation. — DayakDaily
