by Theleaders | September 20, 2026 1:41 pm
SIBU, Sept 20 — The Sarawak government has agreed in principle to an initial RM1.5 billion allocation to establish the Sibu Economic Zone (SEZ) as a dedicated platform to coordinate and shape the city’s economic development.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the SEZ would focus on investment, the service sector and high-value employment.
“Sibu’s development will also be supported by stronger connectivity and industrial capacity, including the proposed West Bank Bridge and the Sibu Industrial Park, which is scheduled for completion in 2029.
“The proposed Bukit Assek redevelopment, which has received in-principle approval, is another important long-term initiative aimed at moving Sibu towards a more sustainable and higher-value economic direction,” he said at the Association of Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sarawak (ACCCIS) annual general meeting here.
Also present was ACCCIS president Kong Chiong Ung.
Dr Sim said ACCCIS and its affiliated chambers had over the years provided an important platform for business networking, policy dialogue, capacity building and engagement between the government and business community.
The State Public health, Housing and Local Government Minister said the business community had an important role in Sarawak’s development, adding that the government valued the contribution of chambers such as ACCCIS in conveying businesses’ views and concerns.
“I encourage ACCCIS to continue serving as a constructive bridge between the government and the business community, particularly in identifying practical issues affecting businesses and contributing ideas towards Sarawak’s economic development,” he said.
Dr Sim said the private sector had an important role in turning policies, infrastructure and development platforms into actual investment, business activity and employment.
“Government development alone cannot achieve the full potential of Sibu or Sarawak. This is why organisations such as ACCCIS remain important partners to the government.”
He said the government would continue providing policy direction, infrastructure and platforms for growth, while businesses must be prepared to invest, innovate and identify new opportunities.
He also encouraged ACCCIS to continue bringing together businesses from across Sarawak and strengthening cooperation among its affiliated chambers.
“Through closer government-business collaboration, we can build a stronger, more resilient and more competitive Sarawak economy.”
D Sim also commended ACCCIS for extending its contribution beyond business advocacy, particularly through initiatives promoting environmental awareness, resource recycling and sustainable living.
He said the ‘How to Retain the Blue Sky Eco-Enzyme Public Workshop’ in 2024 and ‘How to Retain the Blue Sky 2.0: Five Eco Enzyme Lessons’ in 2026 demonstrated ACCCIS’ continued commitment to environmental sustainability.
He said the second workshop in June also saw eco-enzyme initiatives extended to schools to encourage environmental awareness among students.
“These initiatives are aligned with Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, which places economic prosperity, social inclusivity and environmental sustainability as the three key dimensions of Sarawak’s development vision.”
Dr Sim said environmental protection was not only an ecological responsibility but was increasingly connected to the future economy, including green industries, renewable energy and new high-value opportunities.
Looking forward, he said Sarawak was entering an important phase of economic transformation and must continue moving beyond traditional industries while developing new economic sectors, knowledge and technical capabilities.
He identified renewable and green energy, semiconductors, healthcare, digitalisation and technology-related industries as key areas for future growth.
Dr Sim also commended ACCCIS for launching its Digital Membership Database Management System yesterday.
“This is a positive step that shows ACCCIS is embracing digitalisation and moving in the same direction as Sarawak’s broader transformation towards a more digital and technology-driven economy,” he said.
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