Continue close collab with S'wak govt to boost state's economy, Premier tells ACCCIS

Abang Johari (centre) leads the cake cutting ceremony to mark the ACCCIS 60th Anniversary at the dinner. – Photo by Jude Toyat
KUCHING (June 14): Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has urged the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sarawak (ACCCIS) to continue its close collaboration with the state government to drive Sarawak's economic transformation, particularly in energy, industry, education, and agriculture.
Speaking at the ACCCIS 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner here tonight, Abang Johari said Sarawak is entering a new phase of economic development, and welcomed stronger engagement from the business community to seize opportunities in areas such as green energy and industrialisation.
'I hope ACCCIS, we work together. The moment the door knocks, then I call you, and you talk to them. That's where your joint venture comes in, and the Sarawak government will facilitate,' he said in his speech during the ACCCIS 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner at a hotel here tonight.
He noted that ACCCIS has been a partner to the state government since 1965 and has contributed significantly to Sarawak's economic development.
'Of course, 60 years is a long journey and I believe that ACCCIS, as a partner to the government from 1965, have done and contributed a lot to the economic development of Sarawak. Thank you very much, ACCCIS,' he said.
Abang Johari went on to highlight Sarawak's focus on green energy as a key area for collaboration.
'Our strength is in energy. If your power is competitive and sustainable, people will bring their investments here,' he said, adding that joint efforts between the government and business sector are essential to attract industrial players to Sarawak.
He also called on ACCCIS to play an active role in supporting the state's industrialisation drive, education development, and modern agriculture, all of which are aligned with Sarawak's long-term strategy to build a resilient and sustainable economy.
Among those present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang; Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng; Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) president Datuk Ng Yih Pyng; ACCCIS president Kong Chiong Ung and organising chairman Datuk Tan Jit Kee.

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