KUCHING: The expansion and upgrading of industrial parks and estates across Sarawak serve as key initiatives in strengthening Sarawak’s industrial ecosystem.

Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said industrial parks are continuously being upgraded to improve infrastructure, utilities, road connectivity and industrial land capacity to meet growing investor demand.

“During the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), RM128.05 million was allocated for 23 industrial park projects throughout Sarawak.

“Six projects have been completed, namely Sematan Industrial Park Phase 1, Sri Aman Industrial Park, Betong Industrial Park Phase 1, Kapit Industrial Park, Samalaju SME Cluster Phases 1 and 2 as well as the Marudi Industrial Park Phase 1.

“Meanwhile, the remaining projects are at various stages of implementation. Looking ahead, RM183.07 million has been approved under the 13MP for 17 industrial park projects, including in rural areas.

“These projects will support industrial expansion, regional development, job creation as well as Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) growth,” he said.

He said this during his ministerial winding-up session at the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Wednesday.

The Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED) further shared that the Sarawak Government has approved the development of Sarikei Industrial Park Phase 2 under the 13MP.

He added that his ministry is currently identifying a suitable site to maximise its socio-economic impact, particularly in investment generation, job creation and regional economic growth.

Datuk Amar Awang Tengah added that MINTRED’s strategy is to develop integrated industrial clusters where anchor industries can stimulate supporting industries across the supply and value chains.

“This ecosystem approach will strengthen local participation and generate wider economic spillovers.

“In line with this, my ministry will continue working closely with MSMEs through upskilling and reskilling programmes to enhance participation in industrial clusters and improve competitiveness,” he said. -UKASnews