KUCHING, Sept 14 — The Sarawak government has further strengthened bilateral relations between Malaysia and Indonesia with the opening of the Tebedu–Entikong border as a designated trading point, following agreement by the Indonesian authorities.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the breakthrough was achieved during a recent bilateral meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, which was also attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“At the last bilateral meeting with Indonesia, I was invited by the Prime Minister in his team, and we met the President. During the meeting, I took the opportunity to mention the Tebedu–Entikong border.
“Indonesian authorities then agreed to open Tebedu–Entikong as a trading point, as they were initially hesitant. President Prabowo said it could be used for trade between Malaysia and Indonesia,” he said during the official opening of the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) Community Hostel, held in conjunction with DBNA’s 70th anniversary, at its headquarters here last night.
He added that residents in Tebedu could benefit from the new development by exploring cross-border collaborations with Indonesia.
In a related note, Abang Johari said Indonesia had requested Sarawak to consider extending electricity supply from Lubok Antu to Nanga Badau, particularly via Singgang.
“This means we have to increase the power supply to Indonesia, which will serve as a basis for collaboration between the two sides,” he noted.
He also highlighted that, from an economic perspective, there are numerous opportunities for Sarawak to build an integrated economy in line with Asean objectives, particularly in trade and agriculture.
Based on previous media reports, the meeting held in July this year highlighted various matters of bilateral interest with Indonesia, including border issues and Asean cooperation on renewable power generation and distribution.
Also present at last night’s event were Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development and DBNA adviser Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn; Adviser in the Sarawak Premier’s Office (Education), Datuk Amar Michael Manyin Jawong; DBNA president Datu Ik Pahon Joyik; Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Marine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep; Deputy Minister of Transport (Aviation and Road) Datuk Dr Jerip Susil; and other distinguished guests. — The Borneo Post
