Sarawak expands economic reach through digital and international trade initiatives

Sarawak is implementing several strategic initiatives to integrate its local businesses and economy into regional and international markets. Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg stated that the state aims to be an active contributor to the ASEAN digital economy, which is projected to reach US$2 trillion by 2030, driven by the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA).

To support trade expansion, Deputy Premier Awang Tengah Ali Hasan announced that a Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office in Pontianak, Indonesia, is expected to begin operations by mid-2027. Plans are also underway to establish a similar office in Abu Dhabi to access Middle Eastern markets.

Local entrepreneurs are being encouraged to target specific sectors and regions. Minister Tiong King Sing urged businesses to leverage trade networks in China, while Minister Fatimah Abdullah highlighted plans to export women-led micro-entrepreneur products to Singapore and via airline partnerships. Additionally, officials are calling on small and medium enterprises to meet international standards to capture opportunities within the global halal market, covering food, fashion, and handicrafts.