KUCHING: Italy’s premier industrial firms have expressed a keen interest in remaining strategic partners with Sarawak, particularly in supporting the state’s aspirations to become a leading clean energy hub within the Southeast Asian region.
This was conveyed by the Italian Ambassador to Malaysia, Raffaele Langella during a courtesy call to the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar at his official residence in Kasuma Resort, Petra Jaya, Tuesday (March 3).
Also present was Wan Junaidi’s wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
The hour-long meeting, which included the Director of the Sarawak Regional Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Datuk Fenny Nuli, served as an introductory visit following Langella’s official appointment.
Beyond formalities, the discussion aimed to solidify the diplomatic and economic ties between Italy and Sarawak across several high-value sectors.
During the exchange, Wan Junaidi and Langella explored various areas of mutual interest, including green energy, trade, higher education, and biodiversity conservation.
Wan Junaidi highlighted Sarawak’s significant potential in green hydrogen production and renewable energy, noting how these resources align with the state’s long-term sustainable development goals.
The dialogue also touched on enhancing cooperation in the cultural and tourism sectors with both parties discussing strategies to increase the number of Italian visitors to Sarawak, with a specific focus on the state’s unique ecotourism and heritage offerings.
Wan Junaidi expressed optimism that this partnership will continue to reach new heights, unlocking fresh development opportunities and fostering shared benefits for both Italy and Sarawak.
