DUN Sarawak: Cross-border trade hubs open up new economic opportunities

KUCHING, 16 Oct: The Sarawak-West Kalimantan border area, Indonesia, has the potential to develop as a strategic international trade hub, thus opening up new economic opportunities for residents of Opar and Lundu Region.

Member of the National Assembly (ADUN) Opar, Billy Sujang, said Biawak which is located near the Malaysia-Indonesia border has a strategic position to be a catalyst for local economic growth as well as improving the welfare of the population.

"With proper planning, the area will not only be a gateway to the border, but it can grow as a centre of trade, logistics, distribution of agricultural products, investment and employment opportunities", he said.

According to him, the proposal is in line with the statement made by the Sarawak Premier on September 27 last that Biawak will be strengthened as a strategic cross-border economic gateway for expanding trade networks with Borneo and ASEAN.

He said this while discussing the Supply Bill (2027), 2026, at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) conference here, today.

In this regard, Billy stressed the importance of upgrading the Biawak Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex to support the development potential of the area.

He said that trade infrastructure facilities and efficient border management systems should be provided to enable the movement of goods and international trade vehicles.

Priorities include improving immigration, customs, quarantine and security facilities, providing adequate inspection space as well as logistics facilities and digital documentation systems.