By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 27: The Sarawak Business Federation (SBF) and Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) will form a joint task force to develop actionable policy recommendations and ensure alignment between public and private sector priorities.
According to a statement, this followed a meeting between a Sarawak delegation led by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and business leaders from East Kalimantan held in Balikpapan, Indonesia.
During the meeting, East Kalimantan’s evolving economic landscape was acknowledged, along with the growing emphasis on manufacturing and diversification beyond traditional sectors, which led to the formation of a joint task force between KADIN and SBF.
“The meeting reaffirmed both regions’ commitment to deepening bilateral economic cooperation and culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a joint task force focused on advancing strategic development.
“The dialogue highlighted the enduring ties between Sarawak and Kalimantan—rooted in shared history, cultural affinity, and a common regional vision,” said the statement.
The Sarawak delegation included representatives from the SBF, Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), and various government and private sector entities.
Their Indonesian counterparts consisted of officials from the East Kalimantan Provincial Government, the Nusantara Capital City Authority (OIKN), KADIN, and local business associations.
The statement also added that key areas of collaboration include:
- Renewable energy: Sarawak is expanding its clean energy portfolio through hydro, solar, and biomass sources, with a focus on hydropower collaboration in North Kalimantan and biomass ventures in East Kalimantan. Nusantara’s goal of full renewable energy by 2045 presents further synergy.
- Nusantara’s development: Sarawak expressed keen interest in contributing to the development of Indonesia’s new capital, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, education, tourism, and infrastructure—aligned with Nusantara’s vision as a forest, smart, and sport city.
- Cross-border trade and investment: Both sides aim to streamline trade and investment flows, with discussions on joint special economic zones and industrial parks at strategic border points to enhance connectivity and job creation.
- Sustainability and circular economy: Cooperation on conservation efforts, carbon trading, and green technologies was emphasised, with a shared focus on value-added timber products and sustainable resource management.
- Infrastructure and connectivity: Plans for improved road networks, new airports, and direct flights are expected to boost tourism and economic exchange between Sarawak and Kalimantan.
“The MoU marks a renewed commitment to collaborative growth, reinforcing Sarawak and Kalimantan’s shared ambition for a more integrated and prosperous Borneo.” — DayakDaily
