SARAWAK has been recognised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as one of only 36 Transitioning Industrial Clusters worldwide, and the sole entry from Malaysia, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced today.
The international recognition acknowledges the state’s ongoing commitment to green energy development and its broader policy of sustainable, environmentally responsible growth.
“Last month, I was invited to speak at the World Economic Forum – Summer Davos 2025. However, due to my wife’s health, I sent our Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications, Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi, in my place,” Abang Johari said during a groundbreaking ceremony in Miri.
“Nevertheless, they had initially wanted me to deliver the speech personally, and the slot was eventually given to the Prime Minister of Singapore. This reflects Sarawak’s rising stature at the global leadership level. God willing, I will be invited to the next Davos session,” he added.
He credited the recognition to the state’s development policies, which emphasise renewable energy and economic strategies aligned with sustainability goals.
“While I was in Japan last week, they expressed admiration for Sarawak’s efforts in prioritising new energy. We must preserve this position — as we grow and raise revenue, we also return that value to the people,” he said.
He pointed to the RM400 million Marina Bridge project in Miri as an example of infrastructure development supported by the state’s energy transition progress.
According to a statement from the Public Works Department (JKR), the bridge is expected to be awarded to a contractor in the fourth quarter of this year. Once completed, it will connect Miri Marina to the Miri Peninsula, reducing the travel distance to Pulau Melayu and Lutong from 10 kilometres to just two, and cutting journey times from 25 minutes to five.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Abang Johari also revealed that the state government is exploring natural resource prospects in the Adong area of Miri.
“Exploration is currently underway in the Adong area. There are signs and indicators of reserves,” he said, noting that the state will proceed with resource extraction if studies confirm viable yields.
In a related initiative, he said Sarawak is laying out a long-term plan to position Miri as a key tourism hub in northern Sarawak. This includes the construction of a new road connecting Miri to Marudi, and on to Long Terawan near Mulu, with further links to the Gunung Buda route in Limbang.
“The road will significantly improve accessibility and stimulate economic growth in the northern region,” he said. - July 22, 2025. Credit: theVibes.com