SIBU: The proposed Sibu Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is expected to catalyse the development of the town as a strategic trading hub in central Sarawak, while attracting more investment through tax incentives.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the SEZ would enable Sibu to enjoy tax incentives, which in turn would boost economic activity and draw investment to the town.

"With the tax incentives, we can have a master plan for Sibu and, at the same time, strengthen Sibu's role as a strategic trading hub in central Sarawak," he said.

He said this at the Sibu Agape Centre's 20th Anniversary Celebration at the centre on Saturday.

According to the Sarawak Premier, the implementation of the Sibu SEZ must be supported by a comprehensive urban development master plan to ensure economic growth takes place in an orderly manner.

He said among the matters that need attention are efforts to address flooding and congestion, as well as planning industrial areas outside the town centre.

"I hope Sibu will become like Amsterdam. That is my aspiration, so that we no longer face flooding problems, have canals and make Sibu town more like a resort town," he said.

Elaborating, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari said manufacturing areas could also be developed outside the town centre to create a more orderly urban environment, while attracting new investors who could enjoy incentives, including tax relief from the Federal Government.

He said a special authority should therefore be established to focus specifically on the development of the Sibu SEZ and ensure that the master plan drawn up is implemented effectively.

He also cited the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone as one of the models that could be referred to in developing the Sibu SEZ.

Earlier, he took the opportunity to visit the five organisations operating at the Agape Centre, namely the Special Children's Association, Methodist Care Centre, Special Olympics Sibu, Sibu Autistic Association and the Lau King Howe Memorial Children's Clinic.

Also present were Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, Sibu Resident Superi Awang Said, Sibu Community Services Association Chairman Datuk Tiong Thai King, Sibu Agape Centre founding members and other guests. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Gabriel Rommy
Photos: Ameerul Syafiq
Translator: Uilson Ng