KUCHING: Sarawak is on track to emerge as a key player in the regional development network under the ASEAN framework and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) driven by the state’s advantages in green energy, power grid connectivity, and expanding trade relations.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the property sector is expected to be among the biggest beneficiaries through the influx of new investments and economic growth that will result from its strategic location.
He added that Sarawak’s success in supplying energy to Sabah and West Kalimantan and plans to channel energy to Brunei and Singapore via submarine cables are proof of the region’s confidence in the state’s ability to contribute to sustainable energy.
“We are moving towards becoming a major player in the ASEAN Power Grid. Green energy will be a major catalyst for future economic growth, including the property sector,” he said.
He said this in a text speech read by Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, during the SHEDA Annual Dinner and Excellence Awards 2025 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Saturday night.
He also said that property industry players need to pay attention to three main things, namely identifying competitive advantages, daring to take strategic risks, and building a strong reputation in the market.
In terms of innovation, he said the use of modern construction technologies such as Industrialised Building System (IBS) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) needs to be expanded, in line with the government’s commitment to increase the efficiency of high-value projects by 2030.
“We can no longer be tied to the old ways. To move forward, we need to dare to try new approaches that are more efficient, sustainable and competitive,” he added.
During the event, a series of excellence awards were presented to honour developers who have shown exceptional dedication to high-quality development and social responsibility.
Double Dynasty Holdings Sdn Bhd was presented with the Outstanding Award in the Commercial Development (Hotel) category for its Sheraton Kuching Hotel project.
Exal (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd also received the Outstanding Award in the Gated and Guarded Landed Residence (Large-Scale) category for SOL Estate, Phase 1.
In addition, Elica Sdn Bhd earned the Merit Award in the Residential Strata Development category for its Upton project, while Sunmow Development Sdn Bhd was granted a Special Recognition in the Large-Scale Landed Residence category for My Residence 2.
The SHEDA Bintulu Branch was recognised with the CSR Leadership Award for its efforts in flood relief and education support initiatives.
Meanwhile, Goh Kim Sin, Founder and Managing Director of Top Green Group of Companies, was named SHEDA Property Man of the Year 2025.
The event also celebrated Lafrowda Properties Sdn Bhd, recipient of the FIABCI Malaysia Property Award 2024, marking a significant milestone as the first SHEDA Award-winning company to receive recognition at the national level.
