Sarawak gives green light to 450 applicants under S-MM2H
SARAWAK has approved 450 applicants for the Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) Programme with Fixed Deposits (FD) placement of RM90 million in Sarawak local banks as of October this year. Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that since his ministry took over the S-MM2H programme from Sarawak Immigration Department in 2020, a one-stop panel has been set up to approve and expedite all S-MM2H applications. “From 2007 to 2019, there was only a total of 1,240 participants approved whereas from 2020 to October 2024 under the ministry’s panel committee, there was a substantial total of 1526 participants,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech today (Nov 19). Abdul Karim further said from 2007, the top applicants for the S-MM2H programme were from China with 408 applicants, United Kingdom (355), Taiwan (265), Hong Kong (260) and the United States of America (216). The Ministry of Arts and Culture (MoTAC) via Commissioner of Tourism has delegated authority under the Tourism Industry Act 1992 [Act 482] and its subsidiary laws to the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak according to subsection 4(2) of Act 482 effective Nov 1, 2024 which applies to S-MM2H program in Sarawak through the letter of commission dated Oct 30, 2024, he added. “This represents a significant achievement for my ministry in further expanding the function of the current S-MM2H One Stop Centre to not only processing applications but also licensing of S-MM2H agents,” he said. He also said that his ministry had carried out a lab with S-MM2H panel committee members, which consisted of representatives from MOTAC Sarawak, Immigration Department of Malaysia, Sarawak; State Attorney- General’s Chambers; Sarawak State Health Department; Sarawak Immigration and Labour Management Unit; Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit; and Royal Malaysian Police to finalise the latest requirements for S-MM2H programme application and guidelines to the licensing application for S- MM2H agents. “A roundtable discussion was also held with all the S- MM2H agents on Sept 5 at The Waterfront Hotel, and subsequently, it was approved by the Cabinet on Oct 24,” he said. He added the S-MM2H programme has been improved and adapted from MoTAC’s new MM2H requirements. Abdul Karin urged those interested to refer to the Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts’ website at mtcp.sarawak.gov.my for the new requirements for S-MM2H applications and licensing of S-MM2H agents. “This enhancement will take effect from Jan 1, 2025,” he said.
Bintulu’s Power Capacity to hit 1GW By 2035 to Drive Industrial Growth
KUCHING, July 23 – Sarawak is set to develop two gas-fired power plants, with a capacity of 500 megawatts each, which will increase Bintulu’s total power generation capacity to one gigawatt by 2035. Sarawak Premier, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said that the initiative is aimed not only at meeting the needs of the local population, but also at fulfilling the demands of investors, particularly in the rapidly growing industrial and green technology sectors in Bintulu. “The comprehensive development plan also includes the construction of an international school in Bintulu, to attract professional workers and foreign investors to reside and settle here,” he said, during the opening of a hotel in Bintulu, here, today. Abang Johari, recalling Bintulu’s development history, said that it began with the discovery of natural gas and subsequent investments in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, which spurred the construction of ports and other essential facilities, such as hotels and accommodation for industry players. He noted that this investment-driven development model has transformed Bintulu into a new growth hub, encompassing not only the Kidurong area, but also extending to Samalaju. “This rapid development necessitates the provision of comfortable facilities, including international-class hotels, to meet the needs of tourists, delegations and investors. “To further support Bintulu’s economic growth, a high-tech autonomous rail transit (ART) system, powered by hydrogen, will be implemented under the 13th Malaysia Plan, connecting three strategic locations – Bintulu, Kidurong and Samalaju,” he said. He added that Bintulu will be the second city after Kuching to have the ART system, which will enhance accessibility, facilitate movement, and promote sustainable development. “As I mentioned in Miri recently, Bintulu is now globally recognised as one of the 36 low-carbon industrial clusters in the world. This demonstrates that Bintulu has become a key global focus,” he said. Source
Julaihi: Petros’ role as sole gas aggregator non-negotiable, all parties must comply with law
KUCHING (Nov 13): Petroleum Sarawak Berhad’s (Petros) appointment as the state’s sole gas aggregator is non-negotiable, said Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi. He stressed that the Distribution of Gas Ordinance 2016, amended in 2023, is a law that seeks to ensure all parties, including Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas), comply with the licensing requirements set out. “The Sarawak government, through Petros, is still in technical discussions with Petronas to ensure compliance with all requirements under the Ordinance. “These discussions between Petros and Petronas do not involve any negotiations on Petros’ appointment as the sole gas aggregator. “Therefore, I would like to emphasise once again that the appointment of Petros as the sole aggregator is non-negotiable, meaning no other gas aggregator exists in Sarawak except Petros,” he stressed during the question-and-answer session at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today. He was responding to a question from Lidam Assan (GPS-Katibas) on whether the appointment of Petros as the sole gas aggregator for Sarawak was fully completed, which was also asked by Safiee Ahmad (GPS-Daro), Royston Valentine (GPS-Tellian), and Iskandar Turkee (GPS-Jepak). “Therefore, I will address all these questions together. The appointment of Petros as the sole gas aggregator is effective from Feb 1, 2024. “There are no other gas aggregators in Sarawak except Petros,” he said. Julaihi added that the latest developments in Petros’ role as the sole gas aggregator in Sarawak include several Gas Sales Agreements (GSAs) which have been signed with downstream gas users including Sarawak Petchem Sdn Bhd on July 22, 2024; Sarawak Energy Berhad on July 22, 2024; and Shell MDS Sdn Bhd on Aug 18, 2024. He said the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication has issued Retail of Gas licences to 13 upstream gas players and 10 downstream gas players to date. “Failure to comply with the licensing requirement is an offence under Section 20 of the Ordinance,” he said. As the sole gas aggregator, he explained that Petros, a Sarawak government-owned company, is responsible for carrying out all activities related to the procurement, supply, distribution, and sale of natural gas in the state. He said Petros is also accountable for the planning, development, operation, and maintenance of the natural gas distribution network system in Sarawak.
Premier: Sarawak laying groundwork for future financial success aligned with environmental stewardship
KUCHING (Oct 10): Sarawak is transitioning towards a green economy that prioritises sustainable development while minimising environmental degradation, said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. The Premier said this shift focuses on decoupling economic growth from carbon emissions and resource depletion, ensuring long-term economic and ecological resilience. “Sarawak is laying the groundwork for a future where financial success is aligned with environmental stewardship by integrating renewable energy sources such as hydropower, solar, and biomass,” he said in his keynote address at the Sarawak Future Forum here today. Noting that while Sarawak was historically reliant on oil, gas, and timber, Abang Johari said the state’s economy is now diversifying in response to the global shift towards low-carbon economies. “Recognising the finite nature of these traditional resources, the state is pivoting toward renewable energy, digital innovation, and human capital development. “The Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 serves as a roadmap for this transformation, embedding environmental sustainability as a fundamental component of economic progress,” he said. He pointed out that a cornerstone of Sarawak’s economic transformation is its commitment to renewable energy. “With substantial hydropower capacity, the state already leads the region in clean energy production. “However, Sarawak is expanding its renewable portfolio, targeting an impressive 15GW capacity by 2035. This strategic expansion positions Sarawak as a regional powerhouse in green energy, capable of exporting sustainable power to neighbouring countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, and beyond,” he said. He also said that green hydrogen is at the forefront of Sarawak’s clean energy strategy where the state aims to become a key exporter of hydrogen, particularly to South Korea and Japan, aligning with their national net-zero strategies. “Furthermore, Sarawak is developing a robust hydrogen transportation and storage infrastructure, allowing for seamless export to international markets. “By leveraging its geographical advantage and proximity to key Asian economies, Sarawak can become a major supplier of clean hydrogen, further diversifying its economy,” he said. On Sarawak’s digital transformation, Abang Johari said this extends to urban development, where the region invests in smart city initiatives to optimise city management and improve residents’ quality of life. “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are being integrated into infrastructure systems to enhance efficiency in areas such as traffic management, energy distribution, and public services. “These smart city initiatives are not just about improving urban living—they are also aligned with Sarawak’s broader climate goals. “By making cities more efficient and sustainable, Sarawak is reducing its environmental footprint while enhancing the liveability of its urban areas,” he said. The Premier said the principle of inclusivity also lies at the heart of the Sarawak government’s development strategy. “Social equity must be a guiding principle as we develop policies and programmes that ensure every Sarawakian, regardless of background, has access to opportunities for education, employment, and entrepreneurship. “To truly measure our success, we must ask ourselves, ‘Are we creating a society where everyone has a chance to succeed? Are we building a future where no one is left behind?’ These are the questions that must guide our work in the years ahead,” he said. On the forum, Abang Johari said the inaugural event has brought together global experts, thought leaders, and practitioners from diverse fields, including Nobel laureate Prof Joseph Stiglitz, a global leader in economic thought who has long championed the need to move beyond gross domestic product as a measure of success. “It is our hope that through these discussions, we will gain new perspectives and insights on how to create a more just and sustainable economy. “Sarawak is ready to learn, to adapt, and to lead in areas that matter most to the future of our planet – whether it be green energy, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, or digital innovation,” he said. The Sarawak Future Forum is organised by the Sarawak Centre of Performance Excellence (Scope) and Leadership Institute of Sarawak Civil Service (LISCS), in partnership with The New York Times, Institute of Management Sarawak (Masa), and the American-Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM). Among those present were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and Deputy State Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Datu Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel.
Awg Tengah: Talent devt across various sectors vital in ensuring Sarawak’s status on global platform
KUCHING (April 24): Sarawak is looking into developing talents in the design of semiconductor products using silicon, germanium and gallium arsenide, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. He was cited by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) in a report as saying that this could be achieved by enhancing collaboration with industry players in the UK. “Talent development in various sectors for the people of Sarawak is important to ensure Sarawak’s position in the global platform. “Sarawak designers are capable of being on par with international designers, given that there are now foreign companies that have bought semiconductor products produced in Sarawak,” said Awang Tengah, who is part of the Sarawak delegation led by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in a working visit to the UK. They inspected the advanced technology employed at the Drax Power Station and oversaw the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Sarawak Microelectronics (SMD) Semiconductor and UK-based CSA Catapult. The delegation is now in Poznan, Poland where the Premier is set to present Sarawak’s role in renewable energy security, decarbonisation, and environmental sustainability at the Central European Hydrogen Technology Forum. On another matter, Awang Tengah, who is also the Second Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development, said Samalaju High Tech Park remained one of the good locations for foreign companies to come and establish their companies with a workforce made up of local residents, and it could also be used as a place where talent development could be forwarded. On biomass technology, Awang Tengah – also the Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak – said the visit to the Drax Power Plant in Leeds in the UK, was very fruitful and significant because it showed the delegation present how wood pellets were used to generate clean energy in the United Kingdom. “In this regard, a local company like Samling has exported wood pellets to foreign countries for that purpose. “Therefore, we have the potential to develop technology using wood pellets to generate energy in the near future,” he said.
Integrate ESG principles into economic, industrial policies for business sustainability, says S’wak deputy minister
MIRI (May 28): Integration of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles by the Sarawak government into its economic and industrial policies underscores the emphasis on sustainable development and responsible governance, said Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment (Mintred). Speaking at the Environmental, Social and Governance Training workshop here today, he said this commitment fosters an environment where businesses can thrive while adhering to high standards of ESG compliance, embedding these principles into the fabric of Sarawak’s industrial and commercial activities. He noted that Sarawak is rapidly becoming a magnet for foreign investors, with notable expansion projects and substantial investments underway in the state, and Sarawak’s journey towards ESG compliance is aligned with the global shift towards sustainability. “We must recognise that our local actions have global implications. By adopting and adhering to ESG principles, Sarawak can set a benchmark for other regions and states, showcasing that economic development and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand,” he said, adding this resonates with Sarawak’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 roadmap to become a thriving, resilient and sustainable region, emphasising innovation, inclusivity and environmental stewardship. Furthermore, Sarawak’s dedication to sustainable development has attracted global attention, garnering favourable ratings from respected international rating agencies such as Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s Investor Services. These endorsements, he pointed out, validate Sarawak’s strategy to attract high-quality investments and drive large-scale development, all while adhering to ESG principles. In addition, it has implemented robust policies and procedures to ensure transparency, integrity and good governance, with a strong focus on improving the ease of doing business in accordance with ESG principles. One of the steps taken by Mintred is training workshops which serve as a platform to equip industries and stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to implement effective ESG strategies so that businesses remain competitive and sustainable in the global market, he said. He commended the organisers, InvestSarawak, who have been working closely with his ministry, UN Global Compact Network Malaysia and Brunei (UNGCMYB) and Alliance Bank for holding this significant event in Miri. He said the support of speakers, participants, business chambers and associations underscored their collective dedication and commitment to this cause. “Your efforts are crucial in driving the ESG agenda forward and ensuring that Sarawak remains at the forefront of sustainable development,” he added.
Miri sets up command centre as partof smart city initiative
Miri, May 29: Miri City is now embarking on the second phase of the Smart City Initiatives which will include the Miri City Command Centre, expansion of Safe Park and Safe City Initiatives and further digitisation of Miri City Council processes and documentation.Unveiling this, Miri City Council (MCC) mayor Adam Yii said Miri City is fortunate that it was selected as the pioneer city for the Smart City Initiatives by Sarawak government on Jan 30, 2020 and a total of 10 smart applications have been successfully implemented under Phase 1 of the Miri Smart City Initiatives so far. He said Miri City presently has a population of about 350,000, and a land size of about 5,200 sq km.“To put the land size in perspective, Miri City is about 7 times the size of Singapore since the land size of Singapore is about 734.3 sq km,” said Yii at the Kenyalang Smart City Summit organised by Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd, the developer of Kenyalang Smart City (KSC) Development. The event attracted over 50 local and international investors from the Middle East and Asia, including the Republic of China, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia with the purpose to learn more about Kenyalang Smart City Development and associated investment opportunities. “Miri City is in dire need of a proper convention centre in order to host bigger events. Therefore, the convention centre included in the Kenyalang Smart City Development Project is much welcomed,” said Yii.For the foreign guests, Yii who is also Pujut assemblyman, gave a short historical account of Miri City.Miri City came to existence basically when oil was found, developed and produced in 1910 by Shell with the first well drilled on top of the Canada Hill. The hill was named Canada Hill by the local people, because the first drillers working there were Canadians. Due to its historical significance, the Grand Old Lady and a petroleum museum were erected on the site. Miri from then on developed from a small fishing village to what it is now, and has been commonly known as the “oil town”. “Interestingly, Shell as an oil company also has its origin in Miri. Shell was a trading company before it became an oil company,” said Yii. During WWII, the first point of landing by the Imperial Japanese Army on the island of Borneo was also in Miri where the objective was to take over the oilfields of Miri. “And due to the presence of a sizable community of expatriates and their families working and living in Miri since the discovery of oil, Miri has a much more cosmopolitan character as compared to other places in Sarawak,” said Yii. Also present were Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian, Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy MTCP Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting and other dignitaries. – DayakDaily
Premier: Miri Port to propel northern Sarawak’s economy, rival Dubai after 2030
MIRI (Sept 18): The Miri Port has the potential to become a key port linking Sarawak’s northern trade to global markets, said Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. He said apart from that, it can spur economic opportunities and further accelerate development in Sarawak’s northern region, including the hinterlands. “The people of Miri have long dreamed of developing this port. However, the high costs and questions over its economic feasibility kept it on hold for years. “Datuk Amar (Douglas Uggah Embas) and his team met with me to discuss the project, and I had already considered the idea, as we had always wanted to build a port in the northern region but the path forward was unclear,” he said. Abamg Johari was speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the proposed RM208.9 million training bund and dredging project at Batang Baram Delta, at the Miri Port here today. Abang Johari said that the dredging project to deepen the access channel would adopt the latest BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) technology which is already used in developed countries in Europe. “Hence, we set aside an allocation amounting RM280 million even when the cost is only RM208 million. We are putting aside the remaining funds for future projects,” he added. He noted that the investment will return to Sarawak over time given the vast potential and opportunities the project brings after its completion by year 2026. Looking forward to the future, Abang Johari envisioned Miri Port not only able to handle various types of cargo, but also be turned into a resort that would attract tourists, potentially competing with the world’s renowned tourist destination like Dubai. “If this area becomes a resort, it could be a rival to Dubai. They have the Palm (Jumeirah), so our port will not only welcome cargo and vessels, but also cruises that bring in tourists. “We will build buildings, hotels there. With that, we will have a major port that is on par with Singapore,” he said, adding that this would be materialised after 2030. Additionally, he said the Miri hinterland, which is rich in palm oil, would also benefit greatly from the port as transportation costs would be reduced, resulting in higher profit margins. He said that the Baram Delta has also been identified as a Carbon Storage area, creating opportunities for the Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) industry. He added that the port would also feature containerisation facilities, further boosting its capacity to handle a variety of cargo. “As for our pipeline, Sarawak will manage its own gas resources. Our gas resources are our right, despite some issues with Petronas at the moment. This means that we will develop a state gas roadmap including here in Kuala Baram, and this is one of the new industries,” he said. He stressed that for Sarawakian to enjoy these developments, the people must remain united and support the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS). “As long as GPS is here, we will continue to have new ideas, which we call innovation where we constantly look for ways outside the box to develop Sarawak,” he said. Meanwhile, Abang Johari witnessed the formal exchange of contract documents between Miri Port Authority and its joint venture partners Rimbun Prima Sdn Bhd and China Communications Construction Company (M) Sdn Bhd. Also present at the function were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Transport Minister Dato’ Sri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy State Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Datu Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, and Miri Port Authority chairman Datuk Paulus Palu Ngumbang.
Sarawak’s rapid growth, lofty plans should not be seen as desire for independence: Premier Abang Johari
Led by Premier Abang Johari Openg, Sarawak is making moves to cement its status as one of Malaysia’s most important states and has likened itself to the economic powerhouse region of Bavaria in Germany. KUCHING: In a lounge on the highest floor of the Wisma Bapa administrative building near downtown Kuching in Malaysia’s Sarawak state, the walls are black and marble with ornate gold trims. The floor is fully carpeted, the ceiling boasts chandeliers, and sofas line every corner of the spacious room. The lounge is part of the office of Sarawak’s Premier Abang Johari Openg, a key figure in the autonomous state. Stacked on coffee tables are news magazines outlining Mr Abang Johari’s achievements and grand ambitions for Sarawak, which has massive oil and gas reserves and is well on track to have its own port, airline and financial institution. And these grand plans have given the Premier the confidence to tout his state’s prowess and positioning in Malaysia as similar to the Bavaria region in Germany – known as an economic powerhouse there. In recent years, Sarawak has retaken Bintulu Port from the federal government, bought over regional airline MASwings from the national flag carrier Malaysia Airlines, and is in the final stages of acquiring a controlling stake in Affin Bank. These moves are necessary for Sarawak to “go forward”, while the state’s riches mean it can afford to give back to its people, Mr Abang Johari said in a wide-ranging interview with CNA in August. In December 2023, he unveiled a plan to provide free tertiary education for Sarawakians in state-owned universities from 2026. The idea of free tertiary education for Sarawak natives was first mooted by Mr Abang Johari as part of his birthday wish in August 2022. “For any country to develop, you need quality human resources, and that is where I think with good education behind them, you can get people out of poverty,” he told CNA at Wisma Bapa. “It is more so when you have the economic ecosystem that allows them to make use of what they know to develop further.”
Lee: S’wak drawing up master plan on integrated, modern transport system
KUCHING (Sept 24): The Sarawak Integrated Transport Master Plan 2025-2040 aims to create a comprehensive framework to develop an integrated and modern transport system that meets the evolving needs of Sarawak, said Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin. The Transport Minister said while there have been various city master plans and regional development plans in the past that touched on the aspects of transport, none have fully consolidated or addressed the complexity and opportunities within the sector. “This Master Plan aims to address that gap and chart a unified and strategic way forward,” he said when officiating a lab session for the master plan here today. He said the transport sector serves as the backbone of Sarawak’s economy and social inclusivity, where it plays a pivotal role in supporting key industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, tourism and services. He pointed out that his ministry has embarked on a transformative transport development including initiatives to modernise the public transport system under the Kuching Urban Transport System (KUTS) as well as enhancing air connectivity through the establishment of a Sarawak-owned airline and plans for a new international airport, which can unlock Sarawak’s potential as a strategic air travel hub and serve as a gateway for greater economic and tourism growth. “In the maritime and riverine sector, Sarawak is blessed with an extensive network of rivers which presents opportunities for trade, tourism and industrial growth including the oil and gas industry. “The Sarawak Transport Ministry is committed to leveraging these resources in an environmentally sustainable manner,” he said. He also said that the logistics sector had also been discussed, with a focus on developing lorry terminals to streamline supply chains across land, river, and air transport. “We are not only looking at developing transport in Sarawak only; we are working towards sub-regional connectivity with our neighbouring countries, Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia as well as regionally to promote sustainable economic growth, cross-border trade and tourism. “As we progress with the development of the transport modes – land, river, sea and air – we need to embrace digitalisation to improve efficiency, enhance integration and meet sustainability goals such as the use of green fuels and energy,” he said. Lee urged the lab participants, which comprised representatives from 56 government agencies and the private sector, to actively engage themselves throughout the session, which will also explore legal frameworks necessary for implementing the initiatives. “Your insights are of utmost importance in crafting a practical Master Plan,” he said. He also extended his appreciation to the study’s consultant consortium companies comprising Perunding Bumi Jasa, Surbana Jurong, Ernst and Young, Jurutera Jasa and Reddit & Co, for taking up this important task in the development of the Master Plan. “Your expertise and dedication will help ensure that the plan is comprehensive, sustainable, forward-looking and practical to provide a blueprint that can be effectively implemented,” he said. Also present were Deputy Minister of Transport (Aviation and Road) Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, Perunding Bumi Jasa Sdn Bhd director Wan Alwi, Surbana Jurong director Dennis Tan and Jurutera Jasa director Felix Ang.
