MIRI: The sustainability agenda must serve as a crucial foundation to ensure Miri’s transformation continues to progress in an inclusive, efficient and competitive manner for the benefit of future generations.

Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said that while Miri must continue to attract investment, create job opportunities and strengthen urban infrastructure and services, such development must be carried out sustainably.

According to him, sustainable development does not mean halting development, instead ensuring that every development project is executed through a more efficient, inclusive and responsible approach.

“The question is no longer just about how much development we can achieve, but how we can make that development more efficient, inclusive and sustainable,” he said while speaking at the 2026 JCI Malaysia Sustainable Development Award Grand Award Ceremony here on Sunday.

He further noted the diversification of Miri’s economy, with growing opportunities in sectors such as tourism, services, education, healthcare, digital economy, technology and logistics.

Meanwhile, Dato Sri Lee highlighted that sustainability principles play a vital role in the transport sector, as connectivity spanning air, road, public transport and logistics acts as a catalyst for tourism, investment, business activities and urban competitiveness.

He added that Sarawak is taking steps towards developing a more sustainable transport system through the implementation of hydrogen-powered public transport in Kuching, as well as exploring the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) within the aviation sector.

In this regard, he congratulated the 29 successful finalists, as well as JCI Malaysia and JCI Lutong, for their efforts in successfully organising the event.

He expressed hope that the recognition will continue to encourage more actions, collaborations and initiatives capable of positively impacting sustainable development in Miri and Sarawak. -UKASnews