He said this is in line with Sarawak’s mission to become a developed and high-income region by 2030, driven by data and innovation.

“These collaborations will pave the way for a greener and more resilient future as well as to enhance economic growth. In recent years, our collaboration further expanded to emerging technology such as digital economy, green technology and sustainable development.

“For example, Huawei has collaborated with the Sarawak government to enhance digital connectivity and to support digital transformation in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

“We hope that the bilateral relationship continues to grow stronger, which anticipates being one of the key driving forces for sustained growth and prosperity,” he said in his keynote address at the Malaysia-China Summit (MCS) 2024: Networking Engagement Series in Sarawak, at a leading hotel here today.

Awang Tengah – also Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment – noted that Sarawak’s economic ties with China are driven by strong trade, investment and collaborative projects across sectors.

“China is one of Sarawak’s key trading partners. In 2023, Sarawak’s exports to China such as liquefied natural gas, edible oils and basic metal was worth RM18.8 billion, while imports such as machinery, manufactured goods and consumer products amounted to RM9.9 billion.

“In fact, the economic collaboration between China and Sarawak continues to grow with China’s involvement in hydropower development, namely Bakun, Murum and Baleh, which support our goal to be the Asean powerhouse.”

He said the participation of China in the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project in Sarawak by bringing in expertise and technology promoted modern, sustainable and efficient urban transportation system.

“The ART system is another collaborative project between Sarawak and China, which has led to a significant stride to position Sarawak as the leader to adopt cutting edge green mobility,” he added.

He said investments from China have significant impact on the economic growth and development in this region, enhancing industrial capabilities while fostering sustainable development and innovation.

“To-date, China has invested more than RM19.4 billion, mainly in solar, steel and wood-based manufacturing projects in Sarawak which have led to the creation of more than 10,000 jobs for the local population and spin-offs for the local economy,” he said.

He added that last year, his ministry had organised MINTREDConnect in Guangzhou and Beijing aimed to enhance bilateral economic relations as well as explore new business and investment opportunities.

Awang Tengah said Sarawak’s partnership with China also extended beyond economic collaboration where cultural and educational exchanges between both regions have enriched societies as well as fostered greater friendship and mutual understanding between the people.

“Kuching and Sibu have established sister city relationships with several cities in China, such as Dali, Kunming, Chongzhou and Dongcheng. These initiatives have provided a platform for new trade and investment opportunities besides boosting the tourism industry.”

On MCS 2024, Awang Tengah said the summit focused on innovation and economic development, highlighting the role of Malaysia as a gateway to Asean and beyond, which fostered cross-border collaboration.

“In this regard, Sarawak can be a key player in Asean due to our strategic location, abundant natural resources and commitment to sustainable development.

“The Malaysia-China Summit 2024 will be a platform for Sarawak to further strengthen socio-economic collaboration and foster meaningful partnership with China,” he said.

Also present were Deputy International Trade, Industry and Investment Minister Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, China’s Consul-General in Kuching Xing Weiping, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation board member Dato Mohammad Medan Abdullah, and Qube Integrated Malaysia Sdn Bhd executive chairman Richard Teo.