Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian (second right) and Generali Insurance Malaysia Bhd chief executive officer Fabrice Bernard (centre) cutting the ribbon to open the integrated branch in Kuching.
KUCHING: Sarawak's emphasis on prosperity, inclusivity and environmental sustainability make it an attractive prospect for investors and businesses, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
He said Sarawak was at the forefront of environmental sustainability to move towards net-zero carbon emissions and help mitigate climate change.
He noted that the state was not spared the effects of climate change as it faced unusual rain and hot weather patterns.
"Last year was the hottest year on record in the world. It's important to mitigate climate change for human survival.
"Sarawak is changing direction, moving away from fossil fuels to green energy and environmental sustainability," he said when opening Generali Malaysia's first integrated branch here on Monday (April 29).
Dr Sim said environmental sustainability was a key pillar of Sarawak's post-Covid-19 development strategy, along with prosperity and inclusivity.
He said the state's gross domestic product (GDP) was projected to grow to RM282bil in the next six years.
"We are on target to achieve this. Sarawak's revenue has increased from RM5.8bil in 2018 to RM13.3bil last year and is expected to be higher this year," he said.
Dr Sim welcomed companies like Generali Malaysia to operate in Sarawak and tap into the state's economic potential.
"We look forward to your first integrated branch in Sarawak. There are a lot of opportunities here," he said.
The branch provides a range of general and life insurance services under one roof.
