KUCHING: The MINTRED Connects programme holds the potential to elevate Sarawak’s global presence, particularly in attracting foreign investments.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said this is because the investment promotion and trade outreach programme under the International Trade, Industry and Investment Ministry (MINTRED) has become a platform enticing investors eager to explore opportunities in Sarawak.
“With Sarawak’s location strategically located in the Asian market, it makes the state in a good position to be the gateway for potential investors from the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe to penetrate the market for products and services.
“For the record, the value of Malaysia’s trade with the UK is worth RM17.57 billion in 2022, while Sarawak’s trade with the UK is worth RM150.7 million in the same year.
“The moderate trade figures between Sarawak and the UK show that there is an opportunity for more cross-border activities in the trade of goods and services.
“So, we (the Sarawak government) welcome all investment and cooperation in the six priority sectors, namely manufacturing, commercial agriculture, tourism, forestry, mining and services,” he said.
He said this during the MINTRED Connects@London 2023 programme which was officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Hyatt Regency London-The Churchill here yesterday (Dec 8).
Pointing out similar events held in Guangzhou and Beijing in June and September, respectively, he said these events play a crucial role in facilitating Sarawak companies’ networking with business partners in China.
“The state government also hopes that higher education institutes from the UK can explore opportunities in Sarawak due to its strategic location.
“This is important to accelerate economic growth, quality education, innovation and creativity in the development of human capital that will drive the phase of Sarawak’s economic development to the next level.
“Sarawak’s strategic vision is to chart a path towards sustainable development and equitable progress in line with global environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards,” he explained.
He said apart from that, the Sarawak Government also provides incentives in the form of competitive industrial land complete with necessary infrastructure as well as attractive tariffs for water and energy supply.
