Stronger bilateral S’wak-China ties crucial to ensure prosperity for future generation, says Abg Jo

KUCHING (Sept 21): Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised the importance of strengthening Sarawak-China relations, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring prosperity for future generations.

He noted China’s strategic partnership had been instrumental in advancing Sarawak’s own economic development.

“To date, China has invested over RM19.9 billion across various sectors, including solar, steel and wood-based manufacturing.

“These investments have generated over 10,000 jobs and provided a healthy boost to the Sarawakian economy,” he said in his speech, which was delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, at the Malaysia-China Diplomatic Relations 50th anniversary and Mid-Autumn Festival commemorative dinner at Seafood Shangri-La, Cityone Megamall on Friday.

Abang Johari further emphasised this relationship was crucial for achieving Sarawak’s development goals.

“Our government envisions a competitive digital economy and aims to position Sarawak as a regional hub for green energy production and distribution. We’ve already seen major success in the hydropower sector with projects like Bakun, Murum and Baleh — demonstrating Sarawak’s potential as an energy powerhouse in the Asean region.

“Sarawak is leading the way in green energy initiatives. The Hydrogen Economy Roadmap has generated US$ 4.2 billion in partnerships, focusing on developing hydrogen plants and supporting facilities, as well as innovations like the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system to sustainably produce green energy for both domestic and international markets,” he explained.

He also highlighted the strong ties between China and Sarawak, which have fostered cooperation in human capital development alongside economic collaboration.

“For instance, discussions are ongoing for Fudan University to open a branch campus in Sarawak,” he said.

Abang Johari reiterated the state government’s commitment to transforming Sarawak into a regional green energy powerhouse and said it is fundamentally linked to its strategic partnership with China and is essential for realising this vision.

“I admire Deng Xiaoping’s Open Door policy and am optimistic about our continued collaboration, especially as President Xi Jinping has expressed interest in revisiting Sarawak following his earlier trip to Sibu,” he said.

The event on Friday night was organised by the Kuching China Trades Importers and Exporters Association (KCTIEA) and co-organised by the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China.

Abang Johari said since its establishment in 1976, the association has been dedicated to promoting trade exchanges between China and Sarawak and the growing trade relations have strengthened diplomatic ties and brought significant benefits to both regions.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Transport Dato Henry Harry Jinep, who was representing federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, KCTIEA president Datuk Yii Ming Tang and China’s Consul-General in Kuching Xing Weiping.