Sarawak posts RM16.8 bln trade surplus in Q1 2025, says Awang Tengah
KUCHING (July 2): Sarawak recorded a trade surplus of RM16.8 billion in the first quarter of 2025, maintaining strong economic momentum amid global uncertainties, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
Citing official figures, the International Trade, Industry and Investment Minister said the state's exports in 2024 rose by 2.3 per cent to RM133.8 billion, driven mainly by key commodities such as liquefied natural gas, crude petroleum, and crude palm oil.
He also revealed that imports increased by 3.1 per cent to RM64.5 billion, while the state's trade surplus expanded by 1.5 per cent to RM69.3 billion.
'Building on this, the first quarter of 2025 has shown continued strength with a RM16.8 billion trade surplus, reflecting Sarawak's steady momentum,' he said during his keynote address at the launching ceremony of Sarawak Export Day 2025 held at a local hotel here today.
The event was jointly organised by the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak (Mintred) and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade).
Awang Tengah said that Sarawak's trade performance continues to be a pillar of economic growth, showing resilience despite the challenging global environment.
He also said the state government is committed to transforming the state's economy by shifting from raw commodity exports towards value-added products, in line with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030
He highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with trade agencies and industrial players to unlock access to regional and global markets.
Awang Tengah said Sarawak currently has trade offices in Singapore and Brunei, with a new office set to open in Pontianak to further strengthen regional connectivity.
'We are laying the groundwork for advanced manufacturing, green economy initiatives and digital-based exports. Our aim is to make Sarawak an export-ready economy that is innovative, inclusive and sustainable.
'The federal and Sarawak governments stand ready to support both large exporters and MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) through agencies such as Mintred, Matrade and SME Corp Malaysia,' he said.
He also revealed that since 2021, interest subsidy schemes have benefited over 3,300 MSMEs with RM75.5 million in subsidies, while approximately 178,000 entrepreneurs have received RM3.3 billion in financial assistance.
Awang Tengah urged Sarawakian businesses to embrace digitalisation and sustainability to remain competitive in the evolving global market.
'We are rich in natural resources, but that alone is not enough. We must equip our people and industries with knowledge, skills and innovation to build a future-ready Sarawak.
'Today's buyers are not just looking at price and quality. They want sustainability and exporters must meet international standards and adopt responsible practices,' he said.
Awang Tengah concluded his keynote address by urging exporters to explore emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America, in order to diversify trade partners and reduce dependency on traditional markets.
Also present during the event were Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, Matrade chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican and other officials.
Sarawak Export Day 2025 is part of the state's wider effort to equip local businesses with the tools and knowledge to thrive in global trade and the event gathered industry players, policymakers, and trade experts for knowledge sharing and networking. Awang Tengah exports imports lead Sarawal trade surplus
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