KUCHING: China’s role in its relationship with Sarawak has evolved, expanding from mere trade partnerships to include collaborations in infrastructure, technology, green energy and cultural exchanges.
Swinburne University of Technology’s Faculty of Business, Design and Arts lecturer Nivakan Sritharan said that infrastructure development in Sarawak had greatly benefited from this multifaceted relationship.
“These projects, collaborating with China’s companies, such as the Baleh Hydroelectric Power Station, not only boost Sarawak’s energy infrastructure but also include the construction of the Jepak Bridge to enhance state connectivity,” he told New Sarawak Tribune.
Nivakan also said advancements in sustainable urban mobility, exemplified by projects like the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) and the introduction of hydrogen buses, both manufactured in China to promote green mobility and technological advancement.
The digital economy and green technology sectors in Sarawak have similarly thrived due to increased cooperation between China and Malaysia.
“China has been Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 13 consecutive years.
“Sarawak’s exports to China, which include liquefied natural gas, edible oils, and basic metals, total RM18.8 billion, while imports amount to RM9.9 billion in machinery, manufactured goods, and consumer products,” he said.
Investments have also been substantial, with Chinese investments in Sarawak surpassing RM19.4 billion, notably in solar, steel, and wood-based manufacturing projects.
Furthermore, educational and cultural exchanges have strengthened ties, with partnerships like that between Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) and Yunnan University fostering academic exchange and joint research.
He pointed out the cultural landmarks such as the Malaysia-China Friendship Park and the Chinese Museum in Sarawak in celebrating historical ties.
Tourism has benefited from initiatives like the Friendship City Agreement between Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) and Dali City.
Nivakan also highlighted the role of several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) in bolstering Sarawak’s sectors.
“Recent investments from entities like Xian LONGi Materials and Comtec Solar Systems Group Ltd, totalling RM2.26 billion, have created numerous job opportunities and spurred local industrial development,” he added.
Looking forward, he said that the state government should continue to enhance these ties through government-to-government (G2G) engagement and public-private partnerships (PPPs).
“By leveraging strategic advantages in renewable energy, digital economy, agriculture, and research, Sarawak can maximise these collaborative opportunities,” he added.
