By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Jan 8: Tanjung Embang is where Sarawak’s future economic landmarks are taking shape, with major infrastructure projects including a deep-sea port, gas terminal, and a new international airport.
Speaking after officiating the Mazu Statue Consecration Ceremony at the Mazu Temple within the Qing Shan Yan Temple in Muara Tebas today, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the temple’s view overlooking Tanjung Embang reflects the strategic significance of the site for Sarawak’s long-term growth.
“This Mazu Temple overlooks Tanjung Embang, where our deep-sea port, gas terminal, and new international airport will be located. These are critical projects for Sarawak’s prosperity, which Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has embarked upon,” he said in a pre-recorded interview.
Dr Sim, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, noted that the Sarawak Gas Roadmap will see more than RM100 billion invested over the next five years in gas terminals, the deep-sea port, and the airport.
Drawing inspiration from Dubai’s success, he said: “Dubai started with just renting two aeroplanes from Pakistan Airlines, which later became Emirates Airlines. Today, Emirates is one of the largest airlines in the world. With airline growth comes airport expansion and that’s exactly what Sarawak is planning with AirBorneo and the new Kuching international airport.”
He emphasised that Sarawak’s recent strategic moves, including the acquisition of MASwing to form AirBorneo, lay the groundwork for the State’s aviation and logistics expansion.
“The new international airport, deep-sea port, and gas infrastructure are just the beginning. These projects are crucial to Sarawak’s economy and income,” he added.
Acknowledging the global shift toward renewable energy, Dr Sim stressed that oil and gas remain vital. “Even with climate change concerns and green energy ambitions, oil still plays a major role in US strategy. Sarawak is fortunate to have both oil and gas, as well as renewable energy, green energy, hydrogen, and hydroelectric power,” he said.
Dr Sim also addressed the long-term vision for the State’s prosperity and human capital. “Some ask how people will benefit from these developments. Nation building is not a one-day task. The question is: is Sarawak in 2026 better than in 2016? We must ensure sustained prosperity, prepare the next generation, and continue the work after Abang Johari and myself,” he said.
Highlighting education as a priority, he said Sarawak’s free tertiary education initiative aims to equip the State’s youth to surpass current leaders in knowledge and capability.
Combined with ongoing infrastructure development, Dr Sim said Sarawak will be unrecognisable by 2030.
“By 2030, with the gas terminal and new airport completed, Sarawak will be different. People visiting Kuching will be wowed,” he said.
He urged every Anak Sarawak to contribute to nation-building, noting that even other states, such as Sabah, have looked to Sarawak as a model of progress.
Kuching Hokkien Association chairman Dato Sri Richard Wee and Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng were among the distinguished guests present. — DayakDaily
