KUCHING – Sarawak has unveiled the Bintulu Transitioning Industrial Cluster (TIC), a strategic initiative designed to accelerate the state’s industrial transformation and strengthen its position in the global market.
Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, officiated the launch at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Thursday morning.
He emphasised that global competition is no longer centred solely on pricing but increasingly on production methods, carbon intensity and adherence to environmental standards.
The Premier described the Bintulu TIC as more than a new programme, calling it a platform to unite industry, government, financiers and technology partners under a shared vision.
He explained that future economic growth will be driven by integrated ecosystems combining energy, industry, technology, talent and innovation, rather than isolated projects.
“Why Bintulu? Because it is where Sarawak’s industrial strength meets its future ambitions. Together with Samalaju, it forms one of Southeast Asia’s most strategic energy and industrial corridors,” he said.
Bintulu has long been recognised as a cornerstone of Sarawak’s industrialisation, hosting one of the world’s largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) complexes.
This facility has connected Sarawak’s resources and exports to international markets, reinforcing the state’s role in global energy supply.
Building on this foundation, Sarawak expanded its industrial agenda through the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).
Investments in infrastructure, energy capacity and industrial ecosystems have attracted new ventures, diversifying the economy and creating opportunities for advanced manufacturing.
Samalaju Industrial Park has become a key component of this strategy, hosting energy-intensive industries such as aluminium, ferroalloys, petrochemicals and advanced manufacturing.
These developments have strengthened Sarawak’s reputation as a leading industrial and energy hub in the region.
The Premier highlighted that the Bintulu TIC will serve as a collaborative platform to advance sustainability goals while enhancing competitiveness.
By aligning industry stakeholders with government policy and technological innovation, the cluster aims to position Sarawak at the forefront of industrial transformation in the next energy era.
The launch of the TIC marks a significant step in Sarawak’s long-term vision to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility, ensuring that the state remains resilient and competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
