KUALA LUMPUR – Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, held discussions with representatives of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) during a meeting at the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund (SSWF) Office in Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) on Tuesday.
The engagement was aimed at strengthening strategic ties and exploring opportunities for collaboration in areas such as sustainable development, economic growth, and regional cooperation.
The Premier was accompanied by senior Sarawak officials, including Deputy State Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah bin Haji Zaidel, Deputy State Financial Secretary Datu Hasmawati binti Sapawi, and Director of the Economic Planning Unit Sarawak (EPU) Datu Ir. Ts. Awang Mohammad Fadillah bin Awang Redzuan.
Also present were Ir. Dr Angelia Liew San Chuin, Director of the Sarawak Climate and Energy Diplomacy Unit (SACED), and Robita Lee Robinson, Head of the Urban and Regional Planning Division, EPU.
Their participation highlighted Sarawak’s focus on integrating climate diplomacy and urban planning into its broader development agenda.
The ADB delegation was led by Director General Zhang NianShan, accompanied by Regional Cooperation Director Alfredo Perdiguero, Advisor Said Zaidansyah, and Senior Country Specialist Gary Krishnan.
The team provided insights into regional development strategies and reaffirmed ADB’s commitment to supporting sustainable initiatives across Southeast Asia.
The meeting underscored Sarawak’s determination to position itself as a forward-looking state with strong international partnerships.
The Premier emphasised that collaboration with institutions such as ADB is crucial in advancing Sarawak’s long-term economic aspirations, particularly in areas that align with global sustainability goals.
Sarawak has been actively pursuing international cooperation to support its development agenda. The establishment of the SSWF reflects the state’s ambition to secure financial resilience and invest in projects that promote innovation, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.
ADB has played a significant role in supporting Malaysia and other ASEAN nations through financing, technical assistance, and policy advice.
Its engagement with Sarawak is expected to open new avenues for cooperation, particularly in renewable energy, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth.
This meeting at TRX highlights Sarawak’s proactive approach in engaging with global institutions to ensure its development strategies remain aligned with international standards and best practices.
It also reflects the state’s commitment to building a sustainable future while strengthening its economic competitiveness in the region.
