KUCHING – Sarawak’s leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the state as a hub for innovation, renewable energy, and advanced industries, signalling a decisive break from outdated stereotypes of underdevelopment.
Speaking at the Sarawak Manufacturers Association (SMA) 2025 Awards Dinner, Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian delivered remarks on behalf of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr Abang Johari Tun Openg, emphasising that the state is aligning its economic strategy with global shifts towards digitalisation and sustainability.
The Premier noted that Sarawak is capitalising on its comparative advantages, including abundant natural resources, skilled human capital, and a growing renewable energy sector.
“We are fully leveraging our strengths in renewable energy, digital innovation, natural resources, and skilled workers to establish Sarawak as a regional leader in clean industries, cutting-edge technologies, and advanced manufacturing.
When the time is right, Sarawak will become a regional powerhouse, not only in Malaysia but also in Southeast Asia and beyond,” the statement read.
Sarawak has already made significant progress in renewable energy, with hydropower forming the backbone of its energy mix.
According to state development reports, more than 60 per cent of Sarawak’s electricity is now generated from renewable sources, reducing emissions and supporting its ambition to expand capacity to 15 gigawatts by 2035.
This transition is part of the Post-COVID Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), which aims to achieve high-income status and a gross domestic product target of RM282 billion by the end of the decade.
The Premier also highlighted the importance of private sector participation in driving this transformation. He urged manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and producers to adopt modern technologies, enhance productivity, and expand into international markets.
“Your efforts to adopt modern technologies, increase productivity, and expand into global markets will be key to driving economic growth and securing Sarawak’s position in the international economy,” he said.
To support this, the state government has pledged continued investment in infrastructure, policy frameworks, and business-friendly initiatives that encourage innovation and collaboration.
Analysts have noted that Sarawak’s clean-energy ambitions, coupled with its digitalisation agenda, are attracting renewed investor interest, particularly in the lead-up to future state elections.
The event was attended by senior officials including Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk McCombsem, Permanent Secretary Zulkarnain, and SMA President Chua Mei Sing, alongside other distinguished guests.
Their presence underscored the close cooperation between government and industry in shaping Sarawak’s economic future.
Observers point out that Sarawak’s transformation is not only about economic growth but also about reshaping perceptions.
Once unfairly characterised by outsiders as “living in trees,” the state now presents itself as a forward-looking economy, embracing digital innovation, renewable energy, and sustainable development as the cornerstones of its progress.
With its strategic plans and growing international profile, Sarawak is positioning itself as a model for balancing economic expansion with environmental responsibility, setting the stage for long-term prosperity in the region.
