KUCHING: The Meishan-Kuching Forum held at Hilton Kuching on Friday marked a significant milestone in strengthening regional cooperation between Meishan City, China and stakeholders in Sarawak.
According to a statement, the high-level exchange was organised by the Eastern ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Business Council, in collaboration with local smart technology firm Karuna (Sara) Enterprise Sdn Bhd.
“The forum brings together leaders from the public and private sectors to explore strategic collaboration opportunities in smart city development, digital infrastructure, regional investment and knowledge exchange,” the statement read.
The Meishan delegation was led by Vice Mayor Wang Yue, alongside Executive Vice Director Yao Wendi, Director Zhou Bo, Deputy County Magistrate Xiang Xuanfeng, and Section Chief Zhu Qing. Their presence underscores Meishan’s commitment to deepening cooperation in digital transformation, urban innovation, and smart technology at the international level.
Sarawak’s delegation included representatives from:
- Sarawak Ministry of Public Utilities and Communications
- Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS)
- Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC)
- Sarawak Investment Corporation
- Kuching South City Council, led by Mayor Dato’ Ng Hong Seng
The opening ceremony was hosted by Nobel Pang, Country Chairman of BIMP-EAGA Malaysia, while Angie Kueh, Deputy Country Director of BIMP-EAGA Malaysia and Chairperson of ICT Group, delivered a welcome speech.
The Sarawak Investment Corporation also conducted a presentation introducing the state’s digital readiness and investment potential, aimed at fostering digital partnerships with Meishan.
“This forum is not only a meeting but a bridge between Meishan and Sarawak, enabling long-term knowledge exchange, innovation, and cooperation,” said Nobel.
Following the opening, bilateral dialogues explored joint interests in:
- Smart city development in Sarawak and the Greater Borneo region
- Digital technology and smart public services
- Partnerships between industry and higher education institutions
The forum concluded with a networking luncheon, during which delegates from both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in digital mapping, smart infrastructure, and broader digital innovation within the BIMP-EAGA region.
