SIBU: A special authority will be established to oversee and coordinate the implementation and development of the proposed Sibu Economic Zone (SEZ), said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the establishment of the authority would be important in ensuring that the economic zone was developed in accordance with a comprehensive master plan for Sibu.
Abang Johari cited the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone as a model where Sibu should also be given similar opportunities to accelerate its economic development.
“I use this Johor Iskandar as a model. They have agreed to have special economic zone for Singapore and Johor. If such an arrangement can be introduced in Johor, then Sibu should also be given the same opportunity, as we are equally part of Malaysia,” he said.
He said this at Agape Centre Sibu 20th Anniversary Celebration and the official opening and renaming of its new building as Wisma Puan Datuk Amar Hajah Juma’sni Tun Tuanku Bujang here on Saturday.
Abang Johari said the Sarawak government had submitted its proposal for the establishment of the SEZ to the Ministry of Finance, the Economic Planning Unit and the Prime Minister.
He added that the Prime Minister had subsequently announced in his Budget speech that the federal government had agreed to the state’s proposal.
“With the establishment of the special economic zone, Sibu will be able to enjoy various incentives, including tax incentives, which will help attract investments and stimulate economic growth,” he said.
He said the initiative would also strengthen Sibu’s position as an important strategic trading hub in central Sarawak.
Abang Johari said the development of the SEZ must be supported by a comprehensive master plan, including extensive urban replanning to address flooding and traffic congestion and ensure that Sibu developed into a more organised and liveable city.
“My ambition is to see Sibu become like Amsterdam, with no flooding, a well-developed canal system and an attractive urban environment resembling a resort city,” he said.
He also envisioned manufacturing activities being located outside the city centre, while the central area would be developed into a more vibrant and attractive urban centre.
Such a development, he said, would help attract more investors, who could also benefit from federal government incentives, including tax exemptions and tax holidays.
Previously he said SEZ will be established with an initial allocation of RM1.5 billion to drive the town’s long-term economic transformation.
