Sarawak exported ships worth over 560mil in 2023, says Deputy Premier

SIBU: Sarawak exported vessels worth RM562.19mil globally in 2023, says Deputy Premier Datuk Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.

He said that these ships have been exported to countries such as Indonesia, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, the Russian Federation, Australia, and China.

Speaking at the 5th Anniversary Celebration of the Sarawak Maritime Industry Association (Samin) on Friday (May 3) night, he said that the shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR) industry will enjoy further growth in the coming years.

Awang Tengah said that this is due to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the comprehensive and progressive Agreement for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPPO).

"The shipping industry serves as the backbone of global trade, offering a cost-effective and efficient means of transporting goods across regions. It will remain a critical enabler to facilitate international trade, foster economic growth, and support job creation," he added.

The International Trade and Investment Minister described ships as the unsung heroes of international trade, bridging the gap between countries to connect producers to potential global markets.

He then said that Sarawak's maritime sector is an important component in economic development, creating a global communication network and providing important connections and transportation for people and goods.

Awang Tengah added that this is especially so for the coastal and inland areas of Sarawak.

"The maritime industry continues to play an important role in enabling businesses to engage in international trade by providing reliable transport options for their goods.

"The industry is well-positioned to drive economic integration through cross-border investment, trade cooperation, use of technology and sustainability initiatives," said the Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development II.

He added that the shipping industry in Sarawak will be a catalyst for innovation and technological advancement in ship design, automation and digitization that increase the efficiency, safety and security of maritime operations.

"The Sarawak government will continue to create a conducive business environment to support industrial growth.

We will further develop industrial parks, including parks for SBSR activities, upgrade infrastructure such as road networks and port facilities as well as develop the capabilities and capacity of our human capital," said Awang Tengah

Meanwhile, Awang Tengah also urged Samin to continue to play an important role in advancing the maritime sector, fostering innovation and cooperation for more sustainable growth in the maritime community.

At the event, Awang Tengah launched the second edition of the Sarawak Maritime Industry Book Publication and the Samin Theme Song including granting an allocation of RM50,000 to help carry out its activities.