Paving the way: Abang Johari delivering his keynote address at the Asean Sarawak Business and Economic Forum in Kuching, Sarawak. — ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: Sarawak is poised to take the lead in driving regional prosperity within Asean through green energy and strategic investments, says Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
He said Sarawak’s initiatives in key sectors will contribute towards Asean’s transition to a more sustainable and technology-driven future.
“Our vision is clear: to establish Sarawak as the gateway to Asean’s sustainable future by leveraging our strengths in renewable energy, digital transformation and trade connectivity,” he said in his opening keynote address at the Asean Sarawak Business and Economic Forum here yesterday.
The one-day forum was organised by KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific, the Asean Economic Club and Asean Business Club.
Abang Johari said Sarawak, as Malaysia’s largest producer of renewable energy, is committed to strengthening regional cooperation in South-East Asia’s transition to clean energy.
He said the Sarawak-Brunei power interconnection will be completed by 2030 with an initial export capacity of 30-50MW, while the 1,000MW interconnection project to Singapore is progressing well.
In addition, he said Sarawak is pioneering hydrogen production, export and innovation as part of its clean energy transition.
“We are positioning ourselves as a key supplier of green hydrogen to regional and global markets.
“As a regional hydrogen hub, Sarawak is ready to help Asean reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower carbon emissions and diversify its energy mix,” he said.
The Premier also said Sarawak is emerging as an investment gateway, particularly in strategic infrastructure development such as the upcoming Tanjung Embang deep-sea port and the new Kuching International Airport adjacent to it.
“For investors, Sarawak is the perfect entry point into Asean. We are providing an ideal environment for companies looking to expand into the region,” he said.
Abang Johari noted that Sarawak approved RM13.4bil in new investments last year in sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing and high-tech industries.
He said the state’s acquisition of a 31.25% stake in Affin Bank Bhd further strengthened its financial ecosystem to support businesses and SMEs with improved access to capital, especially for the upcoming investments in the new airport and deep-sea port development in the next five years.
“To businesses, investors and policymakers, Sarawak is open for business.
“We are not just offering opportunities but a clear, stable and growth-driven environment where investments flourish.
“Whether in hydrogen energy, AI-driven industries or high-value manufacturing, Sarawak is the launchpad for Asean’s future,” he added.
After his keynote address, Abang Johari received the 2024 World Outstanding Muslim Leader of the Year award from the World Muslim Leadership Forum for his leadership and commitment to sustainable development.
The award was presented by World Muslim Leadership Forum chairman Datuk Seri Mohamed Iqbal Rawther and Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia chief executive officer Mak Joon Nien.
KSI president Tan Sri Michael Yeoh said Sarawak is experiencing robust economic growth under Abang Johari’s leadership.
“Sarawak has political stability, unity, visionary leadership, an effective civil service and business-friendly government.
“These are key success factors that make Sarawak an attractive hub for investors,” he said.
