THE FEDERAL government has been urged to work closely with the Sarawak government to strengthen the state’s border security.
Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud also called on the federal government to intensify cross-border monitoring and enforcement mechanisms in Sarawak.
“This will ensure our public safety and border security will not be threatened in our efforts to make Sarawak a developed state,” he said in his address at the 19th State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Tuesday (May 17).
On the relocation of Indonesia’s capital to Kalimantan, Taib said that he expects huge socio-economic opportunities as a result of the relocation.
“The close distance between Sarawak and the archipelago will further strengthen bilateral trade relations,” he said.
He also said that he is pleased that Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) has taken a step forward to develop cross-border electricity connections to West Kalimantan.
“In addition, SEB is also working with Indonesian companies to develop hydroelectric projects in North Kalimantan. These two projects will complement the ASEAN Power Grid.
“Therefore, I hope the private sector is ready and together seize and capitalise on these trade and economic opportunities in the future,” said Taib.
