KUCHING – Recent engagements across the state have reinforced commitments to agricultural advancement, international academic collaboration, and community cohesion. Sarawak Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian has outlined a series of significant meetings and events that underscore the administration’s multifaceted approach to development and social unity.
A pivotal discussion took place involving Professor Duan Xingwu, Vice President of Yunnan University, alongside Mr Thian Foong Fatt, Director of UNIMAS Global, and Professor Dr Puah Chin Hong from the UNIMAS Business School.
This courtesy call followed the delegation’s visit to Sarawak and focused on strengthening institutional ties between the two regions. The meeting served as a continuation of high-level dialogues aimed at deepening cross-border cooperation in education and research.
During these talks, Dr Sim reaffirmed his dedication to establishing a Joint Paddy Research Laboratory and Research Centre involving both Yunnan University and UNIMAS.
This proposed facility represents a critical step in translating scientific expertise into tangible agricultural outcomes. Building upon more than ten years of existing partnership, the initiative aims to accelerate innovation and talent development within the local farming sector.
The urgency of such collaborations was highlighted by recent field activities in Miri, where Professor Duan joined Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg for a harvest ceremony.
The event showcased the Perennial Variety Paddy Planting Project, which leverages advanced technology and strategic international partnerships to bolster domestic food production. These efforts are directly aligned with the state’s target of achieving 60 per cent rice self-sufficiency by 2030.
Dr Sim emphasised that converting academic knowledge into practical solutions remains central to the agricultural transformation agenda. The enduring Sister State relationship between Sarawak and Yunnan, complemented by the Sister City bond between Kuching and Kunming, provides a stable framework for this work.
These diplomatic connections continue to generate meaningful opportunities in agriculture, education, and innovation that benefit populations on both sides. Beyond international diplomacy, the Deputy Premier also participated in several key domestic events celebrating culture and healthcare advancement.
He attended the 2026 Mid-Autumn Festival Gala Dinner and Inauguration Ceremony, jointly organised by the Kuching Padawan Fuzhou Association and the Kuching Simpang Tiga Community Association. Themed “Full Moon, Family Reunion”, the gathering celebrated traditional values whilst fostering community spirit among residents.
In the healthcare sector, Dr Sim was present at the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the KPJ Kuching Expansion Project. This infrastructure development signals continued investment in medical facilities to meet growing public health needs.
Concurrently, he attended the inaugural KPJ Borneo Scientific Conference titled “Advancing Frontiers in Neuroscience”, highlighting the state’s commitment to cutting-edge medical research and professional development.
Cultural preservation through the arts also featured prominently in recent engagements. The Deputy Premier attended the final and closing ceremony of the Kuching Good Voice 9.0 Chinese Singing Competition, hosted by the Kuching Fuzhou Association.
Such events play a vital role in maintaining linguistic and artistic heritage whilst providing platforms for local talent to flourish. Additionally, Dr Sim received a courtesy call from Dato’ Lim Kah Chuan, President of the Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia, commonly known as Huazong.
This meeting reinforced the importance of ongoing dialogue between government leaders and civil society organisations. Maintaining strong channels of communication with community bodies is considered essential for inclusive policymaking and social stability.
Reflecting on these varied engagements, Dr Sim expressed gratitude for the fruitful exchanges and cooperative spirit demonstrated by all parties involved. He acknowledged that the ideas, input, and support received during these interactions are deeply valued.
Such collaborative efforts are viewed as fundamental to driving progress across multiple sectors simultaneously. The convergence of international research partnerships, cultural celebrations, healthcare expansion, and community dialogue illustrates a holistic governance approach.
By integrating external expertise with internal community strengths, the administration seeks to address complex challenges ranging from food security to social cohesion. Continued engagement across these diverse fronts is expected to yield sustained benefits for the state’s long-term development trajectory.
Stakeholders remain optimistic that these initiatives will translate into measurable improvements in living standards and economic resilience. The synergy between academic institutions, cultural organisations, healthcare providers, and government bodies creates a robust ecosystem for progress.
As these programmes mature, their collective impact is anticipated to strengthen Sarawak’s position regionally and internationally.
