(Kuching, 2nd) The CEO of the Regional Corridor Development Agency, Datuk Ismawi Ismuni , pointed out that the agency plays a key role in promoting Sarawak's 2030 post-COVID development strategy and advancing Sarawak's vision to become a high-income and developed region by 2030.
He said that through the implementation of the Sarawak Renewable Energy Corridor Development Plan, the agency has achieved significant milestones in infrastructure and socio-economic development, promoting investment opportunities, creating jobs, and improving livelihoods throughout the Sarawak Renewable Energy Corridor.
He stated that in 2024, their strategic initiatives continue to emphasize urban-rural economic integration, ensuring balanced growth and equal opportunities for all Sarawakians.
"This approach has created a united landscape where communities prosper together, narrowing the urban-rural divide. We are committed to reducing the urban-rural gap, and we have successfully implemented 275 infrastructure projects supported by allocations from both the Sarawak and federal governments. These projects include road and bridge construction, utility infrastructure, and initiatives aimed at eradicating poverty."
Datuk Ismawi Ismuni 's statement yesterday noted that across the three regional development agencies, namely the Upper Rajang Development Agency, Highland Development Agency, and Northern Region Development Agency, the Regional Corridor Development Agency has successfully completed 138 projects, with 64 projects currently being implemented and 45 projects in the design, planning, or tender stage.
He said that among the federal projects in the Sarawak Renewable Energy Corridor region, 16 have been completed, 9 are being implemented, and 1 is in the detailed design stage.
He disclosed that the Sarawak Renewable Energy Corridor has approved investments totaling RM 123 billion this year, expected to create 53,829 job opportunities. In Bintulu, the Samalaju Industrial Park (SIP) remains the cornerstone of the Sarawak Renewable Energy Corridor's economic achievements, attracting global investments, especially in the steel and solar manufacturing sectors.
He stated that this year, the Samalaju Industrial Park has secured approvals from 14 investors, with total approved investments amounting to RM 51.6 billion, highlighting Sarawak's position as an energy-rich investment destination.
"We also take pride in the seamless alignment of our work with Sarawak's 2030 post-COVID development strategy, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), and the Sarawak Sustainability Blueprint, reaffirming our commitment to Sarawak's long-term sustainable development and prosperity. Exciting developments and transformative infrastructure projects are on the horizon for the coming year. These include the Limbang and North Region Coastal Highway, the connecting roads of Miri-Marudi, Marudi-Mulu, and Long Panai-Long Lama, as well as phase one of the new Lawas Airport, all planned to commence by Q2 2025."
Datuk Ismawi Ismuni pointed out that these projects will bring Sarawak closer to achieving a comprehensive road network, ensuring better connectivity for inland communities, and bringing new opportunities for growth and development.
"As we move into 2025, let us continue to build on the momentum we have established with the same determination and shared vision to embrace new challenges and opportunities, the very determination and vision that have brought us to where we are today. Together, we will shape a brighter and more sustainable future for Sarawak."