KUCHING: The traditional industry in the state will continue to be strengthened through the efforts and strategic approach by the Sarawak government in opening up new areas of growth that are being vigorously implemented.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said Sarawak intends to continue to empower the economic sector where its community can thrive thus enabling all parties to enjoy economic prosperity, social inclusion and a sustainable environment driven by data and innovation.
“We will intensify growth in high-value downstream activities for both resource-based and non-resource-based industries towards a more comprehensive economic model.
“Therefore, we are looking for global strategic partners to develop and commercialise products and solutions driven by technology as the government is currently intensifying such efforts,” he said.
Awang Tengah was speaking at the EU-Malaysia Business Day 2024 held at Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM) here today (Feb 14).
The Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment also said that the current government is actively working to create a stronger relationship between Sarawak and the European Union (EU) in creating new investment opportunities.
“As we face the year 2024, our meeting with the EU ambassadors provides an invaluable opportunity for the state to engage in meaningful dialogue and exchange innovative ideas, partnerships and explore new investment opportunities in various economic sectors.
“I hope that this programme will be a vehicle to form new networks and paths that bear fruit towards inclusive economic growth,” he said.
For the record, the total value of trade between Sarawak and Europe reached RM10.8 billion in 2022 involving exports amounting to RM8.7 billion, mainly exports of ferro-aluminum alloys, while imports amount to RM2.1 billion for heating, cooling equipment and spare parts.
Also present at the programme were EU Ambassador to Malaysia Michalis Rokas, Belgian Ambassador to Malaysia Peter Van Acker, Eurocham chief executive officer Jodi Pol and InvestSarawak chief executive officer Timothy Ong.
