BY SHARIFAH NONG-JASIMA AND ALEXANDRA LORNA
KUCHING: Sarawak is set to see a new cement manufacturing facility in Tanjung Manis, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Innocement Sdn Bhd and PMW Industries Sdn Bhd today (June 7).
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg witnessed the momentous occasion at the Dewan Asajaya, Grand Margherita Hotel.
This strategic partnership goes beyond just establishing a factory. The MoU highlights knowledge transfer, technological expertise sharing, and workforce development through training programmes.
A Joint Committee would also be formed to assess the project’s feasibility and pave the way for a future Joint Venture Agreement.
“This signing is a testament to the power of business cooperation. By working together, we can foster innovation and growth opportunities in our respective fields,” said Innocement chief executive officer (CEO) Suhadi Sulaiman.
Tanjung Manis was specifically chosen due to its strategic location, acting as a gateway to central Sarawak.
“Our facility’s capacity is 150,000 tonnes of cement annually and with its smart design, we can quickly scale up production to meet future demands,” he said.
Looking ahead, Suhadi hoped for a second facility in northern Sarawak by mid-2024.
He said this MoU would not only strengthen the cement supply chain but also bolster the state’s concrete product supply, a critical component for major infrastructure projects.
“PMW Industries is a highly specialised company.
“Their focus on spun piles and concrete poles translates to exceptional expertise, precisely the kind of partner we seek,” he added.
Suhadi underscored the importance of local manufacturing for a resilient supply chain.
“This will lead to price stability and potential cost savings for Sarawak, ultimately contributing to a sustainable, self-reliant and thriving construction industry,” he said.
This MoU signing follows similar agreements established by Innocement last year with YTL Corporation Berhad and Thailand’s SCG.
