Sarawak Premier Abang Johari says connectivity investments in ports, airports and airlines are vital for Borneo’s regional economic growth.
KUCHING: Strengthening connectivity is crucial to building a strong foundation for Borneo’s regional growth, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg (pic) said.
He said Sarawak is making major investments in infrastructure, utilities and telecommunications while expanding transport and logistics networks to meet rising industrial demand.
These include integrated land transport systems, a new international airport and a new deep-sea port to strengthen regional and global connectivity.
Speaking at the Indonesia Economic Summit (IES) 2026 in Jakarta, Abang Johari noted that Indonesia’s Kijing International Seaport in Kalimantan could complement Sarawak’s port developments.
He said the combined port infrastructure would create opportunities for complementary operations and improve long-haul connectivity to East Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
Abang Johari also described the resumption of direct flights between Kuching and Pontianak as more than just the reopening of an air route.
He said it reconnects communities across Borneo while supporting trade, tourism, education and business cooperation.
He added that Sarawak has also established AirBorneo to further strengthen regional air links and expand direct connections between the island and other parts of the world.
Abang Johari noted that Borneo is home to over 20 million people across Sarawak, Sabah, parts of Indonesia and Brunei.
He said the island is rich in cultural diversity and natural resources.
At a time of global economic uncertainty and intensifying competition, he said regional cooperation remains vital to ensuring economies stay open and connected, particularly within ASEAN.
