KUCHING: Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee has urged the federal government to refine the ‘Look East Policy’, emphasising Sabah and Sarawak’s vast resources, strategic location, and economic potential amid Indonesia’s capital relocation to Kalimantan.
“Factually, the total population of the island of Borneo has reached approximately 23 million — comparable to that of Peninsular Malaysia.
“This substantial population provides significant economic advantages, particularly for Sarawak, which is rich in natural resources.
“Therefore, I propose that the government refine this policy, not only in the interest of Sabah and Sarawak but also for the overall progress of Malaysia,” she said in her motion of thanks on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s royal address at the Dewan Rakyat on Monday (Feb 17).
She added that the development of large-scale infrastructure, such as highways, is crucial to integrating Borneo’s economic regions.
“To maximise the potential of infrastructure such as the Pan Borneo Highway or a new international airport, I propose close collaboration with Brunei and Indonesia in developing a land transport network that connects the entirety of Borneo, including highways and a railway system.
“In this regard, the proposed Borneo Railway Network (Trans Borneo Railway) should be expedited to ensure stronger economic integration,” she said.
Rodiyah also sought updates on the railway project’s feasibility and implementation timeline.
Meanwhile, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) senior lecturer, Dr Dzul Hadzwan Husaini underscored the importance of regional collaboration with Indonesia and Brunei to boost infrastructure, trade, and labour mobility.
“This initiative is a well-thought-out strategy to reduce income disparities among Malaysians and promote a more inclusive national prosperity,” he said.
He added that for decades, economic development has been heavily concentrated in Peninsular Malaysia, making it the primary driver of the nation’s growth.
“However, Malaysia has the potential to establish two economic powerhouses by elevating Sabah and Sarawak as key drivers of growth in Borneo.
“This would not only strengthen the local economy but also enhance Malaysia’s competitiveness at the regional level,” he said.
He also said that with the right strategies Sarawak and Sabah can emerge as vital logistics, industrial, and service hubs, playing a significant role in the regional economy.
“If the policy is successfully implemented, Malaysia will achieve more sustainable economic growth that is no longer concentrated solely in Peninsular Malaysia.
“This diversification of economic centres will enhance the country’s resilience against global uncertainties, strengthen the well-being of its people, and ensure a more equitable and inclusive development across all regions of Malaysia,” he said.
