NANJING: Sarawak continues to strengthen its strategic collaboration in advancing the green economy, as Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) and China Jiangsu International Economic Technology Cooperation Group Ltd. (CJI) have signed a Framework Agreement that paves the way for the design and development of a next-generation industrial park in the Land of the Hornbills.

PETROS Chairman, Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr) Hamid Bugo, said that in addition to the agreement, the event will also see the signing of seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with potential investors who have expressed interest in contributing their energy, expertise, and resources towards the development of the industrial park within the Kuching Low Carbon Hub (KLCH).

The hub is a key initiative under the Sarawak Gas Masterplan.

He noted that this marks clear evidence of CJI’s capability in attracting investments that are vital to building a dynamic industrial ecosystem connected to global networks.

“The signing of this agreement reflects a significant government-to-government (G2G) partnership between Jiangsu and Sarawak, further reinforcing both regions’ roles as strategic partners in regional energy and industrial cooperation.

“Through this strategic partnership, Sarawak will continue strengthening its global connectivity, tapping into international expertise to build local capacity while positioning Kuching as a leading low-carbon industrial hub in Southeast Asia,” he said.

He delivered his speech at the Framework Agreement Signing Ceremony between PETROS and CJI held here on Thursday.

Among those present to witness the ceremony were the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, Sarawak Deputy Minister for Utility (Sarawak Energy Berhad and PETROS), Datuk Ibrahim Baki, PETROS Group Chief Executive Officer, Dato Janin Girie, CJI Chairman, Song Qinbo and CJI President, Zhu Xingbao.

He went on to explain that in May, PETROS officially selected CJI as one of two core equity partners to jointly develop an industrial park within the proposed KLCH.

He said the selection followed a stringent and data-driven evaluation process to ensure only the most suitable partners were chosen.

“In identifying the right core partner, PETROS undertook a comprehensive landscape assessment, engaging with more than 300 international companies, evaluating them based on technical expertise, financial strength, and alignment with Sarawak’s vision for a low-carbon and innovation-driven industrial ecosystem.

“From that number, we held substantive discussions with over 60 potential investors, and 21 companies expressed strong interest in participating in the development of KLCH. A strategic suitability evaluation was then conducted, leading to the identification of four highly promising companies.

“Following nearly two years of systematic assessment, two companies were chosen as core partners, and CJI is one of them,” he explained.

He added that CJI was selected due to its solid financial capability and extensive network, which enables it to attract high-value investments from China and the international market.

He went on to say that CJI also has an excellent track record in safely delivering large-scale and complex projects.

“Among other factors, its commitment to Sarawak’s participation, the development of local talent, and its unique value proposition align closely with Sarawak’s long-term development goals,” he said.-UKASnews

Reporter: Muller Asen
Translator: Uilson Ng
Photographer: Muller Asen