MIRI: The Sarawak government has always been keen on building ties with business communities as it would diversify the state’s economy and boost its development, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
Awang Tengah emphasised that strong ties between the business sector and the government are essential for creating effective policies and providing businesses with opportunities for growth.
Speaking at the Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs Chamber (DUBS) Miri Hari Raya Open House held at Piasau Boat Club today (May 1), Awang Tengah also stressed the importance of the federal government’s support in developing business infrastructure in Sarawak.
“I do hope that the federal government could chip in to help us in developing infrastructure for the business sector here … For (the state government), we have always given assistance to the business community, especially the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), including small hawkers.
“For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have provided financial assistance through BKSS 1.0 up to BKSS 9.0, which involved funds totaling RM7.6 billion to ease their burden in dealing with the pandemic,” he said.
Citing the ‘Anjung Usahawan,’ which is being implemented in nearly all divisions in the state, Awang Tengah said the projects are fully funded by the Sarawak Government via an initiative under the leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to help further boost the socio-economy of the community within the areas.
He also reminded SMEs to explore a bigger market and adapt to the latest technology to reach their customers.
“Make full use of the facilities and infrastructures that we have provided to expand your businesses,” he said.
Describing Miri as a strategic location for businesses to expand as it is located near Brunei Darussalam, Tengah said the government is planning to establish the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office (STATOS), similar to what was done in Singapore, to strengthen and develop new investment in Brunei.
“I believe it would benefit our traders in the future,” he said.
At the event, Tengah also presented ‘Duit Raya’ to 60 orphans from the Hamidah Yakub Welfare Orphanage Complex.
