KUCHING: Sarawak is emerging as a critical investment gateway as the economic centre shifts to ASEAN.
With this, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the upcoming Tanjung Embang Deep Sea Port will enhance regional trade connectivity.
He added that with the development of the new Kuching International Airport adjacent to the port, Sarawak will position itself 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.
“The acquisition of a 31.25 per cent stake in Affin Bank Berhad further strengthens our financial ecosystem, supporting businesses and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with improved access to capital, especially for upcoming strategic investments in the new airport and deep-sea port over the next five years,” he said while officiating at the ASEAN Sarawak Business and Economic Forum (ASBEF) 2025 at the Riverside Majestic Hotel yesterday (Feb 28).
For investors, he said, 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 forums like BIMP-EAGA and SOSEKMALINDO,” he said.
Abang Johari highlighted that Sarawak’s trade and tourism offices in Singapore, Brunei, and soon in Kalimantan will boost the state’s regional presence and attract global investors.
He noted that health tourism remains one of Sarawak’s strengths, with the state’s private hospitals offering top-tier medical care.
According to him, in 2024, Sarawak recorded 4.8 million tourist arrivals, generating RM12 billion in revenue.
“Statistics show that medical tourism is on the rise, with arrivals mainly from Indonesia. Last Monday, I officiated at the groundbreaking of the RM400 million, 200-bed Gleneagles Hospital, slated to begin operations in 2028.
“In the pipeline are another two private hospitals in Kuching that will further strengthen Sarawak’s position as a medical tourism hub in the region,” he said.
As the Sarawak government has identified the need for better air connectivity, he said the acquisition of MASwings from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and the formation of AirBorneo are timely moves to enhance tourism, particularly medical tourism, while strengthening economic ties with ASEAN partners.
ASEAN, Abang Johari stressed, is at the tipping point of a new economic era, and Sarawak is ready to lead the way.
He reaffirmed that the state’s commitment to green energy, digital innovation, and strategic investment growth is not just about Sarawak but about strengthening ASEAN’s role in the global economy.
“Therefore, 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.
“This forum marks the beginning of new partnerships and investments. Together, we will build a resilient, sustainable, and future-ready ASEAN economy — one driven by 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 said.
