KUCHING: Sarawak should prepare to take up economic opportunities in neighbouring Kalimantan, where Indonesia’s new capital Nusantara is being developed.

       Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud said Nusantara’s proximity to Sarawak would strengthen bilateral trade and bring spillover effects to the state.

       “I am pleased to note that Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) has taken a step forward in this direction by supplying power to west Kalimantan. SEB is also working with Indonesian companies to develop hydroelectric projects in north Kalimantan towards developing the Asean power grid,” he said in his address when opening the Sarawak Legislative Assembly meeting here yesterday.

       Taib also urged the state government to improve Internet connectivity in Sarawak in line with its digital transformation agenda.

       He said this was important for the state to achieve high-income status through better efficiency and productivity.

       “Digital transformation will enhance our business ecosystem, reduce bureaucratic inefficiency, improve transparency and ensure that Sarawak is well connected to the world,” he said.

       In addition, Taib urged the state government to study and improve the management of seaports with innovation and new technology, adding that this will enhance Sarawak’s attractiveness as a trade and investment destination.

       “As Sarawak has an open economy, seaports play an important role in facilitating the movement of goods and supporting supply chains. By developing modern infrastructure, I believe Sarawak can become a competitive investment destination in the region,” he said.

       Earlier, Taib inspected a 105-member guard-of-honour mounted by the General Operations Force led by Dept Supt Muhammad Izzat Fahim Mohd Sofi at the complex’s parade ground.

       The state assembly will sit for eight days until May 26. Three Bills – Supplementary Supply Bill, Land Code (Amendment) Bill and Forests (Amendment) Bill – are scheduled to be tabled.