Guest of Honour |
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The Right Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg Premier Of Sarawak |
Chairman of The Main Organising Committee |
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The Honourable Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan Deputy Premier Of Sarawak |
Speakers |
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Datu Lester Matthew Director of the Economic Planning Unit Sarawak —————— Datu Lester Matthew has been serving as the Director of the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) Sarawak since January 2023. He is a dynamic senior executive with over 20 years of experience in the State Civil Service, holding leadership and managerial roles primarily focused on planning and development initiatives. He holds a Master of Applied Economics from the University of Adelaide, Australia, and is an alumnus of the prestigious Senior Executive Fellows Programme at Harvard Kennedy School in Cambridge, USA. Before his current role at EPU Sarawak, Datu Lester was the Director of Investment Promotion at the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA), where he played a key role in driving investment strategies to foster regional growth. With his extensive expertise in economic planning and development, Datu Lester continues to contribute significantly to Sarawak’s strategic growth and development agenda. |
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Datu Jafri Bin Lias Permanent Secretary Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak —————— Datu Jafri brings over three decades of public sector experience, with a career spanning infrastructure development, procurement governance, and utility service planning.He began his career in 1989 with the Public Works Department, before joining Kuching North City Hall in 1990. Over the next 20 years, he served in various senior positions, including Head of the Contract Division and Deputy Director of Infrastructure Services, where he played a pivotal role in managing development contracts and implementing key urban infrastructure projects. From 2012 to 2022, Datu Jafri served at the State Financial Secretary’s Office, focusing on statewide procurement policies, contractor and consultant registration systems, and contractor development programmes—initiatives that strengthened governance, transparency, and capacity building in the construction sector. Since November 2022, he has held the position of Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak, where he oversees the planning and delivery of essential services, including water supply, electricity, gas distribution, and telecommunications infrastructure across the state. Datu Jafri holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Quantity Surveying from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. |
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Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor Chief Executive Officer Sarawak Tourism Board (September 2018 – Current) —————— Since 2018, Sharzede Datu Hj. Salleh Askor has led the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) with vision, passion, and a deep commitment to positioning Sarawak as a premier global destination. Under her stewardship, Sarawak has been promoted as a land of rich culture, pristine nature, and world-class festivals, with responsible and sustainable tourism at its core. An advocate for Responsible Tourism, she has championed initiatives that ensure every visitor not only experiences Sarawak’s wonders but also contributes to preserving its ecological and cultural heritage. Her leadership extends beyond STB, serving on several State Committees and as an Industry Advisory Panel member at multiple universities. In 2025, she was appointed under the CEO @ Faculty Programme for Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), further strengthening academia-industry collaboration. Sharzede has represented Sarawak on the Board of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) since 2022, currently serving another term (2024–2026) and holding a seat on its Executive Board (2024–2025). She is also a Committee Member of the Asia Pacific Music Meeting (APaMM). Her accolades include the Super Women of Tourism Award for Conservation and Environment (2022) and CEO of the Year – Tourism from the BrandLaureate Best Brands Awards (2022–2023). The Sarawak State Government has honoured her with the PBK (2021), Pingat Peringatan Terpuji Jubli Intan – Bronze (2024), and PPC (2024). With over 30 years of experience in integrated marketing communications, branding, and CSR, Sharzede believes in inclusive tourism—empowering communities to help place Sarawak on the world stage while safeguarding its future. |
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Mr. Chew Chang Guan Chief Executive Officer Sarawak Trade & Tourism Co. Pte. Ltd. (STATOS) —————— Chew Chang Guan is the Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Trade & Tourism Co. Pte. Ltd. in Singapore (STATOS), bringing over 23 years of leadership in trade, investment, tourism, and business development. He has been instrumental in advancing Sarawak’s global visibility and strengthening cross-border partnerships. Chew began his career with the Sarawak Tourism Board, where he gained valuable experience in destination marketing, before serving 13 years with the Sarawak Convention Bureau (now Business Events Sarawak). There, he drove international business events, strategic collaborations, and global promotions that positioned Sarawak as a competitive destination for tourism and business events. Since leading STATOS in 2019, Chew has focused on market access, investment & trade facilitation, and strategic partnerships with Singapore and beyond. He works closely with government agencies, industry leaders, associations, and academic institutions, ensuring Sarawak’s economic offerings gain strong visibility and sustainable growth opportunities. Known for his creativity and strategic foresight, Chew applies his deep expertise in destination marketing to elevate Sarawak’s brand presence in Singapore. Under his leadership, Sarawak has experienced a significant rise in awareness and demand over the past six years, achieved through collaborative efforts with his dedicated team. Chew’s commitment to building impactful connections, fostering innovation, and expanding Sarawak’s reach continues to drive meaningful outcomes for trade, investment, and tourism development. |
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Mr. Samat bin Junai Chief Executive Officer Sarawak Trade & Tourism Office Brunei (STATOB) —————— Samat bin Junai is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Brunei (STATOB), championing Sarawak’s regional trade, investment, tourism development and cultural bonding between Sarawak and Brunei, and beyond. He is a leader with over four decades of distinguished service in government, government-linked companies (GLCs), and public entities across Sarawak and Malaysia. His career began in 1978 with the Sarawak Foundation, where he rose from pioneer staff to Head of Investment Section, driving new investment policies, portfolio reviews, and tax-exempt status initiatives. He was instrumental in establishing major institutions, including Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak and Curtin University Sarawak Campus, while serving as a board member and managing director of numerous subsidiaries across finance, industry, plantations, hotels, and communications. From 2012 to 2024, Samat served the Sarawak Government as Director of Halal Hub and Entrepreneur Development Units, spearheading the Tanjung Manis Halal Hub master plan, entrepreneurship transformation programs, and creating Anjung Usahawan centers. He later assumed roles as Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak, Director of State Public Communication Unit Sarawak, and Special Officer at Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development until he assumed the Chief Executive Officer position at STATOB in August 2024 until present. |
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Prof. Patrick Then Chief Executive Officer Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre (SAIC) —————— Prof. Patrick Then was appointed as the founding Chief Executive Officer of state-owned Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre (SAIC) since March 2025. SAIC aims to accelerate Sarawak economic growth by leveraging AI technologies. SAIC conducts high-impact research and development for Sarawak’s needs, and advises policymakers on AI governance, policy, audit, and talent development. Before that, he led School of ICT as Head of School, Centre for Digital Futures as Director, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak. As SAIC CEO, he continues mentoring researchers and academics in academia. He has been recognized as eminent researcher in health informatics in the region collaborating with prominent cardiologists and clinicians in Clinical Research Centre Sarawak General Hospital in Malaysia and the National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia. He has published papers in high impact journals and proceedings. He is a strong advocate of transdisciplinary research where he translated artificial intelligence techniques into healthcare, manufacturing and other applications. He is a sought-after keynote speaker in IT and cardiology conferences in Europe, India, Indonesia and South Korea. He is the holder of multiple patents and software copyrights that have been translated into commercial product. He is a highly recognised digital health Key Opinion Leader by Ministry of Health Malaysia. He is an elected fellow of the European Society of Cardiology, fellow of the Society for Design and Process Science USA, Senior member of Australian Computer Society, Senior member of IEEE, and Board member of Sarawak Development Institute. |
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Datin Dona Drury Wee Chairman Culinary Heritage and Arts Society Sarawak (CHASS) —————— Datin Dona Drury Wee is a passionate advocate for Sarawak’s cultural heritage, animal welfare, and community service. She is the current Chairman of the Culinary Heritage and Arts Society Sarawak (CHASS) and formerly served as a committee member of the Friends of Sarawak Museum (FoSM). In 2010, as President of the Sarawak Eurasian Association (SEA), she compiled the SEA Legacy Cookbook, which won the Gourmand World Cookbook Award 2011 in Paris for Best Local Cuisine Cookbook in the World. Her most enduring commitment is to animal welfare. For more than a decade, she has been President of the Sarawak Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA), promoting responsible pet ownership and spay-neuter practices. Under her leadership, SSPCA was the first NGO to respond to the 2017 rabies outbreak in Sarawak, working alongside the Government to carry out mass vaccination and animal population control campaigns. Today, SSPCA is raising funds for its new Animal Village, which will include kennels, aviaries, a low-cost neutering clinic, education facilities, and a dog park to encourage responsible ownership. In addition, Dona leads as Chairperson of the Kuching District Trefoil Guild Girl Guides Malaysia, a platform for former Girl Guides and women to serve the community. Her dedication was recognized internationally when she received the WAGGGS Asia Pacific Leadership Award for Service to Girl Guiding in 2022. Through her diverse leadership, Datin Dona continues to enrich Sarawak’s culture, protect animal welfare, and inspire community service. |
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Mr. John Teo Chairman The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Sarawak Chapter —————— With over 35 years of international experience in the hotel and hospitality industry, I bring proven expertise in leading large-scale operations, driving business growth and delivering service excellence across Asia and Europe. I served as General Manager with the Hong Kong Sino Group of Hotels, where I developed strategic business plans and oversaw operations for Gold Coast, Royal Pacific, Island Pacific and City Garden Hotels. Prior to that, I was Assistant Vice President of Highlands Hotel under the Genting Group, Malaysia’s largest enterprise, managing a 1,000-room, 5-star property with 11 food and beverage outlets and casinos. During my eight (8) years with Genting, I advanced into senior leadership roles, creating diverse packages to enhance guest experience and revenue. Earlier in my career, I gained international exposure at Langkawi Holiday Villa Beach Resort (Malaysia), Goodwood Park Hotel (Singapore), Holiday Inn Hotel and Excelsior Hotel (UK) and was promoted to top management in 1994. I also played key roles in setting up the Executive Hotel in Sabah and Awana Porto Malai Langkawi Island Resort. My strengths span operations, sales and marketing and cross-border business development, with networks across China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. A multilingual professional fluent in English, Putonghua, Malay and several Chinese dialects, I was awarded the PJK Honorable Badge in 2000 by the King of Malaysia for contributions to tourism. |
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Datu Abg Ahmad Abg Morni Permanent Secretary Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Sarawak —————— Datu Abg Ahmad Abg Morni holds a Diploma in Forestry and Bachelor of Science in Forestry from University Pertanian Malaysia, Diploma in Management from University of Western Australia and a MSc in Environment (Landuse Planning) from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). Datu Abg Ahmad Abg Morni began his career in Jabatan Perhutanan Semenanjung Malaysia in 1993 and has joined the Forest Department Sarawak in 1995. He has served in the various Divisions in Forest Department; the Operation Branch (1995-2007), Licensing Division (2008-2010), Forest Planning and Management (2011-2014). He was the Head of Strategic Planning and Project Development in 2015 and the Head of Forest Planning and Management Division from 2016 to 2019. Datu Abg Ahmad was the Deputy Director of Forest (Forest Management) from year 2020 to 2022 and currently the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Sarawak since January 2023. With over three decades experience in sustainable forestry and environmental management, Datu Abg Ahmad is actively engaged in climate change issues including participation in the United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) since 1998. Datu Abg Ahmad has been instrumental in the development and implementation of key legislative frameworks and policies in Sarawak, including the Forests (Forest Carbon Activity) Rules, 2022, Environment (Reduction of Greenhouse Gases Emission) Ordinance, 2023, Distribution of Gas (Amendment) Ordinance in 2024 to regulate hydrogen activities, Sarawak Sustainable Blueprint, Sarawak Energy Transition Policy, Sarawak Hydrogen Economy Roadmap, Sarawak Energy Efficiency Roadmap, and Sarawak Net Zero and Carbon Plan. These pivotal legislations and policies have paved the way for Sarawak’s participation in the energy transition and carbon market, thus, strengthening Sarawak’s position as one of the leaders towards low carbon energy future and sustainable environmental governance in the region. |
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Datu Sherrina binti Hussaini Permanent Secretary Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak —————— Datu Sherrina binti Hussaini is the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, a role she has held since 2023. With over three decades of service in the Sarawak Civil Service, she has previously served as Resident of Kuching and Miri Divisions and as Principal Assistant Secretary at the Ministry of Planning and Resource Management Sarawak. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Fresno, USA, and has led key initiatives such as developing the Anti-Bribery Management System MS ISO 37001:2016, making her ministry the first in Sarawak to achieve certification in 2024. She has also represented Sarawak internationally, including as a speaker at the Sarawak Transport Conference 2023. Her distinguished service has been recognised with multiple state awards, including the Darjah Jasa Bakti Sarawak (D.J.B.S.) in 2021 and the Pingat Bakti Kenyalang (PBK) in 2018. |
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Datu Sirai Anak Daha Permanent Secretary Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Sarawak —————— Datu Sirai anak Daha has been serving as the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Sarawak (M-FICORD) since February 2023, bringing with him over three decades of distinguished service in the Sarawak Civil Service. His career spans various senior administrative roles, including Deputy Permanent Secretary of M-FICORD, Resident of Sri Aman Division, Principal Assistant Secretary at Ministry of Modernisation of Agriculture and Regional Development Sarawak, Deputy Resident (Development) of Bintulu Division, District Officer of Belaga, and Assistant Director at the State Implementation and Monitoring Unit. His leadership has contributed significantly to policy formulation, rural development, and sectoral growth in agriculture, commodities, and regional advancement. Beyond his official duties, Datu Sirai actively contributes to community development through leadership roles in several volunteer organisations, reflecting his commitment to public service both in and beyond the workplace. |
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Mr. Dzulkornain bin Masron Permanent Secretary Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED) —————— Mr. Dzulkornain bin Masron, who is currently the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED) Sarawak, a position he has held since March 2024. He brings with him 34 years of public service experience beginning with his appointment on 19 October 1992. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology & Sociology from Universiti Malaya (1991) and a Master of Science in Development Studies from Universiti Putra Malaysia (2004). His career trajectory reflects extensive experience across ministries, particularly in socio-economic planning, entrepreneurship and industrial development. He began as a Research Officer at the Ministry of Social and Urbanisation (1992–2006) before moving into leadership roles in the Chief Minister’s Department. There, he served as Assistant Director in the Human Resource and Quality Unit (2006–2007) and later as Principal Assistant Director in the Entrepreneur Development & Halal Industry Unit (2008–2016). He subsequently held senior positions in the Ministry of Youth, Sport & Solidarity (2016–2017), Ministry of International Trade & E-Commerce (2017–2018), and advanced to Head of Division at MINTRED (2018). He was later appointed Acting Permanent Secretary (2021–2024) before assuming his current role. |
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Ms. Lo Sheau Sia Deputy Permanent Secretary Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED) —————— Lo Sheau Sia is a notable civil servant with over 20 years of dedicated service in economic planning, industrial development, and public policy formulation. She currently serves as the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of International Trade, Industry, and Investment Sarawak (MINTRED), where she plays a pivotal role in shaping and executing strategic policies that drive trade, investment, SME development, and industrial growth across Sarawak. She fosters strategic partnerships across sectors to advance a resilient and thriving economic landscape. In alignment with Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), Lo spearheads initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, accelerate the digital transformation of SMEs, and foster sustainable industrial ecosystems. She champions cross-sector collaboration among government agencies, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders to build a resilient and competitive economy. Before taking on her current role, Lo held key positions within the Economic Planning Unit (EPU) Sarawak, where she led strategic development planning and championed investment promotion efforts. Beyond her government portfolio, Lo is actively engaged in community development. She advocates for youth leadership and promotes bilateral cultural exchange through various organizations, reflecting her commitment to inclusive and holistic growth. |
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Mr. Wong Yew Hoong Founding Director EU Holidays Pte Ltd —————— Wong Yew Hoong is an experienced Chinese entrepreneur based in Singapore, with over 19 years in the travel industry. He graduated from NUS with BSc and MBA. He founded EU Holidaus, which has grown into Singapore’s largest travel brand, known for its quality products and excellent services. |
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Ms. Amelia binti Roziman Chief Executive Officer Business Event Sarawak (BESarawak) —————— Amelia is a pioneer of BESarawak with 25 years of branding, marketing and PR experience whose career in the sector began as a sales coordinator who came from the indigenous Bidayuh tribe of Sarawak, she is passionate about developing her homeland and providing opportunities for its communities which inspired her to lead the business events sector into a new era of purpose and value. Within 12 years, she helms the organisation as a CEO. In 2019, Sarawak became the first destination in Malaysia to take a holistic approach to business events with legacy impact and sustainability initiatives spearheading this transformation in the country. Amelia succeeded in developing and implanting a 5-year advocacy marketing plan called ‘Sarawak 2030’ to the Government sector, with a vision of transforming the business events ecosystem entirely which won the ICCA Best Marketing Award – Communication Category in 2021. The first outcome of this plan was the inclusion of business events as one of the priority sectors in the Sarawak Government’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 — officiating the Government’s recognition and support to the sector. By 2030, the legacy impact and sustainability will be second nature to the business events sector. Amelia has contributed to Sarawak’s total win of 26 awards for destination marketing initiatives and received 5 professional awards including the recent induction as the first woman in Asia to be conferred in the EIC Hall of Leaders 2023, the highest accolade that celebrates and honours exemplary achievements and leadership within the global business events industry. Also, she is the first figure in business events to receive the Ahli Bintang Sarawak (Member of the Order of the Star of Sarawak) medal from His Excellency Governor of Sarawak for her contribution to the business events sector in Sarawak. This award further cements the Government’s recognition of business events as a vital sector for destination development |
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Dato Ir. Ts. Sudarnoto Osman Chief Executive Officer Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad (SDEC) —————— Education & Strategic Leadership: A graduate of Tohoku University, Japan, Dato Sudarnoto began his career at Matsushita Air-Conditioning R&D before joining Celcom Malaysia in 1994. He played a key role in Sarawak’s 2G network rollout and contributed to international projects under Celcom International Ventures. He later advanced to senior leadership at Maxis, overseeing East Malaysia’s network expansion. In 2013, Dato Sudarnoto was appointed Chief Executive Officer of SACOFA Sdn. Bhd., where he successfully led the organisation’s transformation and expansion, diversifying its business footprint both regionally and internationally. Driving Sarawak’s Digital Transformation: Since his appointment as Chief Executive Officer of SDEC in 2020, Dato Sudarnoto has been instrumental in translating digital policies into impactful, on-the-ground initiatives. Among the highlights of his career are pioneering the world’s first 6-way 4G Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN), establishing eight Digital Innovation Hubs across Sarawak to foster homegrown innovation and entrepreneurship, and launching the Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (MySRBN) to provide high-speed internet to the rural and remote communities previously excluded from digital connectivity. |
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Mr. Timothy Ong Chief Executive Officer Invest Sarawak —————— Timothy is the CEO of Invest Sarawak, a state government owned investment promotion agency that serves as One Stop Centre for all investors. A strategic senior executive with over 20 years of experience, he is an expert in developing national initiatives in sustainability and industrial development. He previously held senior positions in Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and National Innovation Agency in the Prime Minister’s Department, instrumental in the development of national initiatives such as National Biomass Strategy, National Graphene Action Plan and the Mid-Tier Company programme. With a strong network across government and industry alongside sharp business acumen, he is a trusted advisor to ministers, foreign governments and C-suite executives on matters on investment, decarbonisation, and ESG-focused ventures. |
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Mr. Busiai Bin Seman Chief Executive Officer Sarawak Information Systems Sdn. Bhd. (SAINS) —————— Busiai Bin Seman is the Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Information Systems Sdn. Bhd. (SAINS). He is a highly accomplished professional with over two decades of experience in the Geomatics and Remote Sensing industry. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing from the University of Malaya and a Master’s degree in the same discipline from the University of Malaysia Sarawak. He is also a certified Digital Business Transformation Professional. As a technologist and GeoSpecialist, he is passionate about leveraging advanced technologies to drive innovation and create sustainable solutions beyond the Geomatics and Remote Sensing industry. Before becoming the CEO of SAINS in 2023, he began his career as a GIS Analyst with GeoSpatial Consultant Sdn Bhd in 1998. He joined SAINS in 1999 and served as a GIS Consultant in the Geomatics Section. In 2018, he was promoted to Director of the Data Science and Innovation Division. During his tenure, he provided technical leadership and contributed to various projects with local and federal governments, focusing on spatial mapping, spatial modeling, data analytics and artificial intelligence. |
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Ts. Dr. Renco Yong King Hwa President Sarawak Association of Maritime Industries (SAMIN) —————— Ts. Dr. Renco Yong obtained his Bachelor’s Degree from Swinburne University, Australia in Management 2000 and obtained his Master in Business Administration in 2002. After working in the Shipping, Shipbuilding, and Ship repair industry for more than 10 years, he decided to further study in the University Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) and obtained his PhD in Maritime Technology in 2012 and graduated in 2017. He has more than 20 years of working experience in the field of Shipping, Shipbuilding, and Ship repair industries. He has been with Gimhwak Group of Companies since 2003 as Executive Director, which main role in Strategic planning, management and decision-making for the corporate function involve in Shipbuilding, Ship repair (SBSR), Shipping, Crane & Machineries recondition, Design & Planning, Project management and Business development. He obtained his title as “Professional Technologist (Ts)” since September 2023 from Malaysia Board of Technologist/ MBOT. He successfully transformed the traditional family business model to a modern and International business by obtaining ISO9001 in 2003, and obtain many business and industry awards. He love to develop himself by enhancing his skill, he obtain a license for Master Domestic below 500GT, a Visual Welding Inspector license, Open water Diver license etc. During 2008-2010, Gimhwak Group of companies invested and restructured another two shipyards to become part of Gimhwak Group, and develop more fleet and international business in Shipbuilding and Ship Repairs. Ts. Dr. Renco is also actively involved in the Association which is the immediate past President of the Sarawak Association of Maritime Industries (SAMIN) and now Executive Advisor for SAMIN, 13 years of Honorary secretary for Sarawak and Sabah Shipowners Association (SSSA) and now the Executive Advisor for SSSA, and 8 years of Honorary secretary for Sibu Shipyards Association (SSA) and now Executive advisor for SSA. He was invited to more than 10 different countries, and given more than 100 talks in the forum, conferences, dialog, and seminars, regarding maritime, shipping, and related industries. |
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Mdm. Audry Mariette Sylvie Wan Ullok President Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) —————— Audry Mariette Sylvie Wan Ullok is an accomplished hotelier, tourism leader and civic advocate with extensive experience in management, voluntary service and international representation. She graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Economics & Business Finance from Brunel University, London (1992) after completing her “A” Levels in England. She has been General Manager of Telang Usan Hotel (1992–present) and Telang Usan Travel & Tours (1994–present), and also serves as Non-Executive Director for Chemsain Konsultant and Sri Melawati Sdn Bhd. Her industry influence includes leadership in the Sarawak Tourism Federation (President, 2010–2012; 2018–present), and board appointments with the Sarawak Tourism Board (2014–2016; 2019–present) and Sarawak Convention Bureau (2019–2023). Internationally, she has served as Honorary Consul of France in Sarawak (2014–present) and represented Sarawak in BIMP-EAGA tourism meetings. She has also held advisory and technical roles with the Sarawak Tourism Board, UCSI University, and the National Tourism Council of Malaysia. Her civic contributions are significant: within the Rotary Club of Kuching, she spearheaded a Rural Health Volunteer project delivering medical aid to Penan communities. She was also the Charter President of Soroptimist International Kuching (2013–2016), launching women entrepreneurship initiatives.She has received multiple awards, including Ahli Bintang Sarawak (ABS, 2008), Outstanding Rotarian (2015) and Anugerah Ketua Menteri Sarawak Usahawan Wanita (2017). Fluent in English, Bahasa Malaysia and French, Audry continues to champion tourism development, community service and women’s empowerment across Sarawak and beyond. |
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Datuk Joseph Podtung Senior Vice President Growth, Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) —————— Datuk Joseph Podtung is the Senior Vice President for Growth at PETROS, with over 34 years of domestic and international experience in the oil and gas industry. In his current role, he is responsible for the company’s business growth, harnessing resources for sustainable progress of Sarawak and Beyond. His area of expertise includes upstream strategy, integrated asset management, and Health, Safety and Environment. Prior to PETROS, he served as Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Authority. He holds a Bachelor of Petroleum Engineering (Hons) from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). |
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Ir. James Ung Sing Kwong Group Chief Operating Officer Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) —————— Ir. James Ung is the Group Chief Operating Officer of Sarawak Energy. A Mechanical Engineer by profession, he has been part of the company since 1990, gaining extensive experience in technical and leadership roles in power generation, power grid system operation and project management. In his current position, he shapes the vision and strategy for operating units, driving human talent and development while also spearheading transformative initiatives and upholding operational excellence. He is a Fellow of the International Hydropower Association (IHA) and a registered Professional Engineer (PE) by the Board of Engineer Malaysia. |
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Tuan Haji Zainal Abidin Bin Haji Abdullah General Manager Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) —————— With over 30 years of dedicated experience in the forestry and timber industry, Tuan Haji Zainal Abidin is a seasoned professional renowned for his deep expertise in strategic planning and sector development aligned with national policies. Tuan Haji Zainal began his career in 1992 as a Forest Officer with the Sarawak Forest Department. In 2003, he was seconded to Sarawak Forestry Corporation Sdn Bhd (SFC) as Area Manager. Over the years, he held various key roles at SFC, including Security & Asset Protection Manager, Revenue Manager, and Regional Manager, before being appointed Deputy General Manager in June 2018. During his time at SFC, Tuan Haji Zainal demonstrated strong leadership in developing enforcement strategies to ensure compliance with forest ordinances and national park regulations. He played a pivotal role in the assessment, collection, and enforcement of royalties, fees, and other levies under these regulations. His extensive knowledge spans sustainable forest management, forestry development, reforestation, rehabilitation, and forest produce. Notably, he was engaged to draft the Forestry and Timber Industry Masterplan for Sarawak in 2019. In February 2019, Tuan Haji Zainal took on the role of General Manager at Harwood Timber Sdn Bhd (HTSB), a wholly owned subsidiary of STIDC. There, he was instrumental in crafting a strategic masterplan and implementing performance metrics through the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) framework, driving operational excellence. In August 2023, he was appointed General Manager of Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC), further solidifying his leadership role in advancing Sarawak’s timber sector. On 11 April 2023, he was appointed Chairman of the Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) by the Minister of Plantation and Commodities. A passionate advocate for continuous improvement, he prioritises fostering collaboration among key industry players and stakeholders across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak. Under his leadership, MTC has embraced Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, culminating in the development of MTC’s ESG Charter. This initiative aligns with MTC’s objectives and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Along the same lines, Tuan Haji Zainal is championing ESG principles at STIDC, building on the legacy of his predecessors to promote sustainability within Sarawak’s timber industry. His efforts are closely aligned with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030), which aims to transform Sarawak into a high-income, developed state by 2030. He also oversees the development of planted forests in Sarawak, encouraging industry players to utilise timber from these sources to manufacture high value-added products such as engineered wood including laminated veneer lumber (LVL), cross-laminated timber (CLT), and glue-laminated timber (glulam) which is all sustainable materials increasingly sought after in the construction sector. Tuan Haji Zainal, aged 54, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry from Universiti Putra Malaysia and a Master’s in Corporate Business Administration with a focus on Economics and Finance from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). |
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Professor Dr. Vincent Lee Chieng Chen Pro Vice-Chancellor, President, and Chief Executive Curtin University Malaysia —————— Professor Dr. Vincent Lee Chieng Chen is currently the Pro Vice-Chancellor, President, and Chief Executive of Curtin University Malaysia, becoming the first Sarawakian to lead the campus jointly operated with Curtin University and owned by the Sarawak Government. His appointment marks a milestone for Sarawakian talent and underscores Curtin Malaysia’s growing role in advancing the state’s socio-economic and sustainability ambitions. Professor Lee previously served as Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive since January 2025, following his tenure as Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor and senior leadership roles in the Faculty of Engineering and Science. A homegrown leader, he holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and PhD from the University of Nottingham. He is a professionally registered engineer, chartered scientist, certified project management professional, and Fellow of Advance HE (UK). With expertise in non-linear dynamics, noise, and vibration, Professor Lee has led numerous industry-funded research and consultancy projects. In 2019, he was recognised among the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ best young engineers under 35. His awards include the IMechE Rising Star Award (2019), Young Member Award (2018), and the Anak Sarawak Appreciation Award (2018). Professor Lee’s leadership is seen as a proud milestone for Sarawak and an inspiration for future generations. With extensive academic, industry, and community engagement experience, he is poised to lead Curtin Malaysia into its next strategic chapter. |
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Professor Jugdutt (Jack) Singh Chief Scientist & Chief Advisor for Digital Economy —————— Professor Jack Singh is currently the Chief Scientist & Chief Advisor for Digital Economy with Sarawak Government, Malaysia. He is acknowledged as one of Australia’s leading ICT thought leader and researcher with extensive senior level academic leadership and consultancy experience both in Australia and globally. Jack has considerable experience in initiating and leading large-scale initiatives collaboratively with industry, government, universities and community driving high impact economic, social and environmental outcomes of global significance. Prior to his current appointment, he held various senior level positions in Australia, including Director of the National Centre for ICT Excellence Australia; Director of SenseT – a partnership program between Australia Federal Govt., Tasmanian Govt., Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and industry to transform Tasmanian economy, amongst others. He also has served on the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Expert Group and is a director on number of Boards. |
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Ts. Mohd Irhasman Bin Inggal Project Planning & Development Manager (Project & Engineering Division) Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) —————— Ts. Mohd Irhasman Bin Inggal is an accomplished leader with over 20 years of experience in industrial development, investment promotion, and large-scale project execution. He has been instrumental in spearheading the growth of the Tanjung Manis Economic Growth Area (T-MEGA), positioning it as a strategic hub for halal industries, shipbuilding, marine engineering, resource-based manufacturing, and global trade. His expertise spans construction technology, project management, land matters, planning, aviation, and occupational safety & health, enabling him to deliver investor-ready infrastructure and sustainable growth opportunities. With a proven track record of building partnerships between government, industry, and international investors, Irhasman is committed to advancing T-MEGA as a competitive investment destination and a catalyst for Sarawak’s long-term economic transformation. |
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Moderator – Mr. Ng Boon Hui Strategy and Transactions Leader EY-Parthenon Malaysia —————— Boon Hui is a seasoned strategy and transaction advisory consultant with a robust tenure of more than 25 years at EY in Malaysia, where he has honed his expertise in Strategy and Transactions Services. His professional journey is marked by a diverse array of high-profile engagements, serving an extensive mix of clients that include government public sectors, private enterprises, commercial financial institutions, publicly traded entities, multinational corporations and statutory boards. At the helm of many pivotal projects, Boon Hui has shown his ability in leading initiatives across a spectrum of disciplines, including infrastructure and government, real estate, construction and hospitality, resources and utilities, consumer products and retail, and telecommunications, among others. With a particular specialization in infrastructure advisory, valuation, business modelling, transaction analytics, decision science, and economic advisory, Boon Hui’s strategic insights are both deep and broad. As a Fellow CPA accredited by CPA Australia, Boon Hui’s credentials are further solidified by his status as a chartered valuer and appraiser with the Institute of Valuers and Appraisers of Singapore. Additionally, he chairs the Malaysia Institute of Accountants Valuation Committee, shaping the future of valuation standards and practices within the region |
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Moderator – Mr. Lawrence Leong Brigadier General (Retired) —————— Lawrence Leong served the Singapore Armed Forces for 30 years and retired as a Brigadier General. He then joined the tourism industry and was involved in the planning and facilitation of the inaugural 2008 Formula One Night Street race and subsequently the 2010 Shanghai World EXPO. He was the Chair of ASEAN Tourism Development Group from 2015 to 2017. He helped increase Singapore’s tourism mindshare across the regions with strong partnerships and aggressive marketing. From 2017, he led the planning and development of the new Mandai Bird Paradise, the Rainforest WILD parks and the Rainforest Hotel as the Deputy CE Development of the Mandai Wildlife Group. He consulted briefly with the Sri Lanka and the Zanzibar Governments on their tourism Masterplans. |
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Moderator – Mr. Tony Chan Associate Principal, South-East Asia Cities & Planning Business Leader Arup Singapore —————— Tony has vast amount of experience advising clients on strategies at various scales & topics, large scale integrated urban planning projects, innovative research studies as well as leading multi-disciplinary projects and teams. He is also particularly adept at integrating multi-disciplinary sustainability & urban resilience objectives into projects. Tony has degrees in Town Planning (Honours) and Built Environment (Sustainable Development) from the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia. He also has additional post-graduate studies in Sustainability Leadership, Business Economics and Project Management from the University of Cambridge, Imperial College, London and the University of Technology, Sydney. His expertise lies in sustainable and climate resilient urban strategies and delivering multi-disciplinary projects in an integrated manner. This includes future resilient vision studies, regional & city strategies, developing large urban master plans and urban design with associated strategies (energy, water, waste, mobility, economic, environmental, social etc.) to address natural resource consumption. |
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Moderator – Mr. Priyanshu Kumbhare Partner Boston Consulting Group (BCG) —————— Priyanshu Kumbhare is a Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he advises leading energy and industrial clients on strategy, transformation, and energy transition topics. His work focuses on shaping growth pathways for organizations navigating the shift toward sustainable and low-carbon futures, with experience spanning energy companies, industrial players and governments.With a strong foundation in engineering and business, Priyanshu combines analytical rigor with strategic foresight to advise on corporate strategy, growth strategy, socio-economic development and investment attraction topics.Priyanshu is passionate about the future of energy, manufacturing, digital innovation, and sustainability in emerging markets. He contributes to BCG’s thought leadership in energy transition and enjoys working at the intersection of strategy, technology, and long-term impact. |
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Moderator – Ms. Shruti Rathore Strategy Consultant Arup Singapore —————— Shruti Rathore is a strategy consultant with over 17 years of experience in strategic advisory and planning across Asia, the Middle East, and the USA. She leads Arup’s Advisory practice in Singapore, advising public and multinational clients on urban and regional competitiveness, infrastructure strategy, and market-driven planning. Shruti brings deep expertise in navigating complex interdependencies between market forces, policy, and infrastructure to deliver practical, actionable recommendations. She is currently leading the Sarawak Investment Policy Study and is engaged in shaping Sarawak’s investment environment. A seasoned speaker, Shruti regularly contributes to industry dialogues on green economy and sectoral transitions. |
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Dr. Annie Woo Group Director – International Projects, Haltex Group Pte Ltd Co-founder – Global Halal Alliance Co-founder – Page 8 Sdn Bhd Director – S&A Funds Pte Ltd —————— Annie has over 30 years of experience in development strategy and sustainable economic planning. She is now the CEO and Co-founder of Page 8 Sdn Bhd, Co-Founder of the Global Halal Alliance (GHA), Group Director of International Projects at Haltex Group Pte Ltd and Director of S&A Funds Pte Ltd. As member of the executive committee, Annie has contributed to thought leadership publications with the International Society of City and Regional Planners in collaboration with the United Nations. She has led consulting teams in major firms including CBRE Pte Ltd, Cistri Pte Ltd and Savills Valuation and Professional Services Pte Ltd. Currently, as Key Project Director, she oversees strategic development planning for special economic zones in Malaysia and Indonesia. She is also program managing the Asset Enhancement Initiative (AEI) of a mall in Hyderabad, India. Under her leadership, Page 8 holds distribution rights to biochar products in Borneo and Aceh, while also advancing waste-to-energy circular economy initiatives and structuring the business models. Annie also serves as Project Manager for GHA (Haltex Group), driving the Global Halal Ecosystem and Industry Transformation Program, which spans halal hub strategy & master planning, infrastructure development, trade (Global Export Program), training, auditing, and certification advisor. |
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Mr. Mohammad Azul Mohd Shah Executive Chairman – Haltex Group Pte Ltd Founder – Global Halal Alliance Co-Founder International Halal Foundation Labuan Malaysia —————— Mohd Azul is a subject matter expert in building the Halal economy within the Halal ecosystem. For the last 24 years he has been identifying and developing global trade enablers that will promote the growth of the Halal economy, and allow for the assurance of Halal and quality in foods, non-food and services throughout the Halal Value Chain, to be cost effectively delivered to Muslim communities worldwide. Mohd Azul founded the first B2B e-commerce portal for the international trading of Halal foods, MuslimsConnect.com, in 1999, and endorsed as the Halal Foods B2B IT Platform for ASEAN. Working closely with various government bodies in Malaysia, Thailand and Brunei on Muslim entrepreneurship programs, he also organized global Halal promotional events to encourage marketing and branding of Halal for everyone, both Muslims and non-Muslims. He is a Founder/Trustee of the NGO, Not-For-Profit, International Halal Foundation based in Labuan, this NGO helped to set up the national Halal Certification agencies in Turkey, Kosovo and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Mohd Azul is an expert consultant for Halal matters, amongst others under the Standards and Implementation Program for the Malaysian government’s Small & Medium Industries Development Corporation.. He was also a Council Member of INTOBA, International Organization of Business Associations, a collaboration between the Singapore government’s International Enterprise Singapore and the World Bank, as Vice President of Events and Halal matters. Under his leadership Haltex Group Pte Ltd was appointed as one of the Halal Consultants with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) for developing the Halal blueprint for the IsDB under its 50-year plan. |
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Pn. Sharifah Mastura Binti Hj Wan Razali Principal Assistant Secretary and Head of Industrial Development Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak (MINTRED) —————— Sharifah Mastura Binti Hj Wan Razali is currently the Principal Assistant Secretary and Head of Industrial Development at the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak (MINTRED). She oversees and implements programs in Industry Facilitation, Halal Industry Development, Manufacturing Licensing, and Industrial Infrastructure for Industrial Parks, working closely with investors, the business community, and stakeholders to address industry challenges and enhance Sarawak’s competitiveness. |
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Ms. Sylvia Ng Ing Ling Co-Head, Client Coverage – Corporate Sector Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad —————— Sylvia brings over 20 years of extensive experience in the banking industry, with a strong track record across client coverage, corporate finance, and credit. She currently serves as Co-Head of Client Coverage, where she leads and develops the client coverage team to deliver tailored financial solutions and strategic advisory services to the bank’s corporate clients. Prior to joining Affin Hwang Investment Bank, Sylvia held the role of Associate Director, Corporate Banking at Malayan Banking Berhad, overseeing client relationships in the Sarawak and Sabah regions. She began her career at CIMB Investment Bank Berhad, where she served from 2005 to 2015, gaining deep expertise in investment banking and corporate client management. Sylvia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Western Australia and is a Certified Practising Accountant with CPA Australia. |
