KUCHING: A key focus of Sarawak’s recent delegation visit to Oslo, Norway, was strengthening economic cooperation, particularly in industries where Norway is a global leader, including oil and gas, forestry, agriculture, and energy.
According to a statement, the Sarawak delegation, led by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, is keen on fostering collaboration in emerging technologies, including Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS), the digital economy, and clean energy solutions like Hydrogen and Green technology.
“The delegation recognises the potential for mutual collaboration between Sarawak and Norway in these vital sectors, as both regions share common objectives in pursuing sustainable economic development,” the statement said.
The visit also highlights Sarawak’s ongoing efforts to modernise its urban planning practices and foster economic growth while ensuring sustainability.
“The delegation is optimistic that this collaboration will lead to long-term partnerships between Sarawak and Oslo, with a focus on shared urban development strategies and addressing the growing demand for urbanisation and migration to cities.”
The visit, organised by the Regional Corridor Development Authority (Recoda) under the leadership of Datuk Ismawi Ismuni, underscores Sarawak’s commitment to learning from Norway’s expertise in sustainable development.
In addition to economic cooperation, the Sarawak delegation is also studying Oslo’s urban planning framework, particularly its integration of sustainability into development policies.
The team also aimed to adapt best practices from Oslo’s well-planned city structure to Sarawak’s unique landscape, which shares similar highland and hillslope topography.
Among the key areas of study are Oslo’s planning laws, zoning regulations, and transportation systems that ensure seamless connectivity between residential, industrial, and commercial areas.
The delegation also gaining insights into Oslo’s waste management strategies, housing projects, healthcare development, and recreational facilities, all of which contribute to the overall well-being of the urban population.
During the engagement session, planning advisor to the City Government of Oslo, Peter Austin, briefed the delegation on the city’s approach to preserving cultural heritage while maintaining green spaces.
The delegation was warmly received by key officials, including political advisor to the vice-mayor for urban development and deputy leader of the Oslo Conservative Party, Ingeborg Tennes; as well as senior advisor, Office of The Governing Mayor, Mari Eike Nilsen.
Discussions between Sarawak and Oslo will continue in the coming days as both regions seek further opportunities for collaboration in urban planning and sustainable development.
