Awang Tengah meets with Kalbar Governor to strengthen regional ties
PONTIANAK (July 30): A Sarawak delegation led by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan has met with West Kalimantan (Kalbar) Governor Drs H Ria Norsan here to strengthen regional ties.
The pivotal meeting underscored Sarawak's commitment to deepening bilateral ties, attracting high-value investments, fostering innovation, and enhancing regional economic integration.
During the meeting, Awang Tengah, who is Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment, highlighted Sarawak's role as a regional leader in renewable energy and a hub for semiconductor and aerospace industries, emphasising the state's drive for high-value investments and innovation.
The discussion also covered air connectivity, including the resumption of the Kuching-Pontianak flight this September, the Sarawak government's takeover of MASwings and its rebranding as AirBorneo, as well as the 2024 launch of the Singkawang-Kuching bus route.
'These initiatives aim to enhance regional connectivity, cross-border trade, tourism, and business linkages across Borneo and the wider Asean region,' said Awang Tengah.
He also advocated for the expedition of trade normalisation at the border, including a proposal for a joint economic border committee for mutual development.
'Both sides expressed strong interest in enhancing people-to-people and business-to-business exchanges.
'The upcoming Kuching–Pontianak direct flights, starting Sept 12, 2025, are expected to significantly boost tourism and healthcare access,' he said.
He added that the Sarawak government's initiative to establish a Trade and Tourism Office (Stato) in Pontianak further solidifies the state's commitment to long-term regional integration.
The visit concluded with a mutual commitment to joint initiatives that will enhance connectivity, promote innovation, and drive sustainable economic progress for both Sarawak and Kalbar. Awang Tengah Ali Hasan H Ria Norsan Kalimantan Barat lead
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