By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 26: Sarawak must continue to uphold consistent, investor-friendly policies to attract more foreign investments, including from the United States (US), said US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D Kagan.
According to a TVS news report, Kagan said Sarawak’s key strength lies in its ability to instil long-term confidence among investors through policy consistency, clear development aspirations and the effective use of its own policy instruments.
“The key is for Sarawak to continue doing what it has done well, creating conditions that attract investment and demonstrating that this is a place where companies can grow over the long term,” he told reporters after paying a courtesy call on Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Satria Pertiwi Complex here today.
Based on his observations during his two-year tenure in Malaysia, Kagan said there has been a marked increase in awareness among American companies, as well as those from around the world, of the significant opportunities available in Sarawak.
He noted that American companies possess expertise and technology that could contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s development, although investment decisions ultimately rest with the companies themselves.
“More American companies are coming here to survey and explore development potential. I see growing interest in seeking collaboration opportunities.
“I am very confident that in the coming years, we will see major US investment announcements in Sarawak. However, when that happens, the announcements will be made by the companies, not the government,” he said.
Kagan explained that unlike some countries, the US government does not direct where its companies invest overseas. Nevertheless, he said the presence of American firms typically brings real and sustainable investments, including the establishment of operational factories and offices.
“When our companies come, they come with functioning plants and offices, not empty buildings. The value exchange is that when American companies arrive, they are strong and reliable partners.
“This can be seen in the oil and gas industry and the presence of Western technology companies here. They do not only create jobs, but also transfer skills,” he added.
Today’s visit marked Kagan’s final official visit to Sarawak as US Ambassador to Malaysia ahead of the end of his term on Feb 15. He described the meeting with the Premier as meaningful and candid, and praised Abang Johari’s visionary leadership, frankness and deep grasp of development details, particularly in renewable energy and Sarawak’s regional role.
“I deeply appreciate the close cooperation and continued support of the Sarawak government in strengthening US–Malaysia relations. Sarawak has changed remarkably since my first visit in 2014,” he said.
Reflecting on more than 11 years of engagement with Sarawak, Kagan said the state has always left him with fond memories, both professionally and personally, including family visits to Kuching, Mulu, Miri and a climb up Mount Santubong.
He also expressed his intention to return to Sarawak in the future as a tourist.
“This is a special place, full of friends and memories. I truly look forward to coming back, this time as a private individual, to enjoy Sarawak’s beauty at a more relaxed pace,” he said. — DayakDaily
