KUCHING: Sarawak and Brunei Darussalam strengthened bilateral economic ties following an official visit by the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB).
The visit was facilitated by the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak (MINTRED), in collaboration with the BIMP-EAGA Business Council (BEBC) and Sarawak Business Federation (SBF).
It formed part of ongoing efforts to enhance regional economic cooperation and promote cross-border trade and investment between Brunei Darussalam and Sarawak.
The programme provided Brunei enterprises with insights into Sarawak’s business environment, including regulatory frameworks, cost structures and potential investment opportunities.
More than 15 companies from various sectors participated, reflecting increasing private sector interest in expanding cross-border commercial activities.
A series of business matching and networking sessions were held, enabling companies from both sides to explore potential collaborations and strategic partnerships.
As part of the programme, the BEDB delegation paid a courtesy call on Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak, Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh.
The delegation was led by The Director of Enterprise Development (DARe), BEDB, Norlela Suhailee, and accompanied by Tuan Sheikh Abdul Mahdani Datuk Paduka Sheikh Abdul Gani.
Tuan Sheikh Abdul Mahdani is the Consul General of Brunei Darussalam in Sarawak and was part of the official courtesy engagement.
The courtesy call was received by Mussen and attended by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak, Datuk Lester Matthew.
The meeting reaffirmed the strong bilateral ties and long-standing economic relationship between Brunei Darussalam and Sarawak.
Discussions focused on enhancing cross-border investment and cooperation in priority sectors, including energy, food security, small and medium enterprise market access and high-growth industries.
Following the visit, the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office, Brunei Darussalam (STATOB) will facilitate follow-up engagements between participating companies.
This aims to ensure business discussions and leads generated translate into tangible outcomes and mutually beneficial partnerships.
The BEDB official visit underscores the shared commitment of Sarawak and Brunei Darussalam to deepen economic cooperation and strengthen regional business connectivity.
