SERIAN: Indonesia has extended invitation for Sarawak to continue sharing its development approach, reflecting growing regional interest in the state’s high-technology and knowledge-driven development strategies.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said an Indonesian minister even mooted the offer of a ‘gold visa’ to facilitate continued engagement.
Earlier this week, he was invited to deliver a special keynote address highlighting Sarawak’s development perspectives and economic priorities at the Indonesia Economic Summit 2026 in Jakarta.
“On Tuesday (Feb 3), I was invited by Indonesia to share our development approach. Their minister even mentioned offering me a ‘gold visa’ so that I could continue sharing expertise, especially in the field of semiconductors,” he said.
He made these remarks when officiating at the ‘Majlis Tilawah dan Hafazan Al-Quran Peringkat Sarawak Kali Ke-65’ on Wednesday (Feb 4) night.
Abang Johari said the invitation demonstrated increasing recognition of Sarawak’s forward-looking policies, which place strong emphasis on innovation, human capital development, and the strategic application of knowledge in economic planning.
He said Sarawak’s focus on green energy and advanced technologies including semiconductors, aerospace, and data-driven industries has positioned the state as a reference point for regional development initiatives.
“All of this boils down to knowledge, which is why it is very important to read and continue seeking knowledge, as encouraged in the Quran. Through knowledge, we can develop not only Sarawak but human civilisation as a whole,” he said.
At the same time, Abang Johari also stressed the importance of sustainability in development.
“When it comes to climate issues, sustainability is crucial. If you disturb the environment, you create an imbalance between development agendas and the environment.
“That is why the world faces high carbon levels, which negatively affect humans,” he said.
Noting Sarawak’s reputation in green energy, Abang Johari said the state is actively working to control carbon emissions and support others in offsetting theirs.
“We seek new knowledge so that we can develop a balanced development agenda while taking care of the environment. With new knowledge, we can become global players, and I pray that we will continue to succeed,” he added.
