LUNDU: Sarawak and Indonesia are set to strengthen economic cooperation through the establishment of a Borneo Economic Cooperation chain, opening new opportunities for deeper development and stronger regional economic linkages.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the initiative would connect the Borneo economy with the wider ASEAN regional economy, creating new avenues for business cooperation between Sarawak and Kalimantan.
He said the initiative is among the new opportunities emerging from stronger ties between Sarawak and Indonesia.
“I was recently visited by the chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and his team, who want to establish a Borneo Economic Cooperation Chain.
“It will be linked to the economy of the ASEAN region. This is a new opportunity for cooperation that will create deeper development as we propel our economy forward,” he said when officiating the Batang Kayan Regatta here today.
Abang Johari said the upgrading of the Biawak border point would further facilitate cooperation between Sarawak and Indonesia, particularly by strengthening connectivity and business links with Kalimantan.
He said the improved border facilities would serve as a channel for closer cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia, with Sarawak expected to benefit from increased economic activities.
“When we upgrade the facilities here, it will strengthen our business connectivity with Indonesia, particularly Kalimantan, in the context of ASEAN development,” he said.
He also said Sarawak’s development approach, which balances economic growth with environmental considerations, had attracted interest from other states and international organisations.
He said he was recently invited to explain Sarawak’s development policies at the Asian Development Bank in Manila, where he shared the State’s approach to balanced development.
“They asked about our policies because they praised our development approach, which is balanced development and considers the environment and the need for a green environment,” he said.
Abang Johari said Sarawak would continue pursuing economic growth while ensuring development remained balanced with environmental protection.
“This is our policy, and we will continue with it so that our economy grows, but our economic growth remains balanced with the environment. This is an approach that may be slightly different from other places,” he said.
He added that Sarawak’s development approach had also drawn interest from other Malaysian states, with delegations from Perak, Pahang and Terengganu visiting to learn from the State’s experience.
He said Sarawak is willing to share its experience and cooperate with other states as part of efforts to position Malaysia as a leading country in managing its economy in the new economic landscape.
