BINTULU: Sarawak is ready to serve as a strategic hub of Borneo and Southeast Asia.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the year 2025 presents vast opportunities for Sarawak as Malaysia assumes the Asean chairmanship.
He wss confident that Sarawak could leverage this role to strengthen economic ties while also advancing cultural exchange, education, and regional cooperation.
“By 2030, I am confident Sarawak will continue to be a key contributor to Malaysia’s economy, particularly through the development of new industries in high-value sectors.
“Sarawak is now recognised as the ‘Battery of Asean’, supplying energy not only for our people but also for our neighbours in Kalimantan.
“We will also expand energy supply to Singapore, Brunei, and eventually other countries in Southeast Asia,” he said in his address during the Sarawak-level Malaysia Day 2025 celebration at Bintulu Old Airport last night (Sept 16).
The event was officiated by the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
Abang Johari said Sarawak had achieved milestones that earned Malaysia global recognition through its forward-looking development strategies.
Apart from leading in digital technology with anak Sarawak’s breakthrough in producing KETEQ AI, the world’s first edge artificial intelligence device, he said Sarawak is also moving ahead with the development of next-generation Gallium Nitride semiconductors — among the most advanced chips in the world.
As part of this vision, he said the Sarawak government is providing inclusive opportunities for all Sarawakians to pursue free tertiary education, which will in turn drive the state’s growth.
“The future of Sarawak lies in its young generation.
“This is our journey — to build a progressive, prosperous, and competitive Sarawak, while contributing to a stronger Malaysia,” he added.
