Sarawak's natural capital to play major role in addressing global economic issues, says Premier

Borneo Post

14-05-2025

Abang Johari (right) and RH Group managing director Datuk Tiong Thai King jointly launch the 50th anniversary celebration.
SIBU (May 14): Sarawak is poised to play a major role in solving global economic problems with its abundant natural assets that have not been disturbed, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said Sarawak is fortunate to have its forests as a carbon sink, hydrogen to supply energy, and people who can be trained to handle the system.
'This is a new terminology, meaning we have the natural capital, the human capital, and through innovation and entrepreneurship, we can improve the process in the global economic ecosystem,' he said at Rimbunan Hijau Group's Golden Jubilee Celebration here last night.
Abang Johari said during his recent visit to the United Kingdom, a London School of Economics professor had deliberated on how to solve global economic problems and said Sarawak is very fortunate to be in its part of the world in Borneo.
'They say we have the natural capital and we are going to be the main player in this part of the region. And with the success of RH Group, I am sure Sarawak will continue to be `hijau, hijau, hijau' (green),' he said to much applause.
The Premier pointed out that in the early 1970s, Sarawak's economy was based on agriculture, exporting pepper, illipe nuts, and agricultural products that gave the state substantial returns.
However, he said the government had to explore a more revenue-based economy in the later part of the decade.
'A lot of small timber companies were then merged into sizeable companies and one of the companies that faced the challenges to get involved in the new spectrum of timber industry was Rimbunan Hijau,' he said.
Abang Johari congratulated RH Group for weathering the challenges and uncertainties over the last 50 years.
'You did not only confine to timber but diversified your portfolio and now it is a global entity with roots from Sarawak but functioning globally in Asia, Russia, and many other parts of the world. We are proud of you,' he said.
He pointed out the global economy has changed and the world is now facing a new crisis of climate change.
With its green economy and natural resources, he said Sarawak will play a major role globally to mitigate carbon emissions.
'That is why we have come up with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy and this strategy work on three pillars on economic prosperity, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability,' he said. abang johari lead natural capital RH Group