SINGAPORE: Sarawak’s export to Singapore is targeted to increase by 30 percent this year and next year. In stating this, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state could reach the figure following the establishment of Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office (Statos) in the island republic.
“Through this collaboration with the Singapore government, Statos is able to facilitate potential returns in trade, tourism and investment from Singapore,” he said during a press conference at the soft opening of Statos at 80 Robinson Road here yesterday.
He said that last year Sarawak’s total export to Singapore (one of the state’s major trading partners) was RM1.2 billion while the total import from the republic was RM1.6 billion.
“The major items being traded between Sarawak and Singapore are machinery and transport equipment, mineral fuels, lubricants and food items.
“At the moment we are exporting our agricultural products such as pepper and poultry. Perhaps our durian paste can also be marketed and distributed through Singapore.
“Last year the state recorded a positive balance of trade with the total exports valued at RM97.7 billion, which surpassed the total imports of RM45.9 billion for the total trade balance of RM51.8 billion,” he said.
He added that Sarawak’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for this year is forecasted to grow at five to six percent. This is achievable as the state is improving its basic infrastructure and focusing on digital economy.
On Statos, he said it was a strategic move to further export Sarawak-made products. It is a strategy to explore the global market, bring in more investments, promote trade and attract more tourists to Sarawak.
“Statos will become a one-stop centre for investment and business as well as tourism players in Singapore to further promote Sarawak,” he said.
Statos will facilitate Sarawak’s trade by creating a comprehensive and up-to-date list of Singapore importers and Sarawak exporters to whom trade advisory services will be provided. The office will also do business matching and business consultation sessions.
The office is at 22-02, 80 Robinson Road, while its gallery is at 01-02A of the same road. The opening hours are from 9am till 6pm on weekdays only.
