Sarawak approves RM31.8 bln in FDI for high-tech industries from 2019-2023, says deputy minister
KUCHING (Nov 12): The Sarawak government has approved a total of RM31.8 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) for high-tech industries in electrical and electronics, chemicals, and green metals, from 2019 to 2023, said Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh.
The Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment said 10 investment projects, totalling RM9.3 billion, have been implemented to date.
“The high-tech industry projects implemented amounted to RM9.3 billion, comprising five projects in electrical and electronics, three in chemicals, and two in green metals.
“The Sarawak government will also collaborate with the federal government to develop Sarawak as a hub for aerospace and semiconductor industries,” he said in response to a question from Razaili Gapor (GPS-Beting Maro) during the question-and-answer session in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) today.
To accelerate development in support of high-tech industries, Mussen stated that his ministry is developing the Sarawak Investment Policy, aimed at formulating strategies and action plans to enhance Sarawak’s appeal as a preferred investment destination.
“The Sarawak Government encourages strategic collaboration with technical institutions, research centres, higher learning institutions, and specific industries such as semiconductors and aerospace to drive innovation and technological development,” he added.
In this regard, Mussen said the Sarawak Government, through the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), has established the Technology and Innovation Sandbox as a hub for testing new technologies across various sectors.
He also noted that SDEC offers platforms such as the SDEC Technology Accelerator, Digital Village Accelerator, and Founder’s Forge, aimed at developing and commercialising technologies through start-up companies.
Moreover, he emphasised that the Sarawak government is placing significant focus on Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) education, offering training in fields such as electrical engineering, automotive technology, and aerospace.
“The Sarawak government is the only region to offer free higher education to all Sarawakians by 2026, prioritising technical and financial courses such as engineering, accounting, cyber analysis, and computer science,” he said.
-Agency
