Billy Sujang pushes Biawak Trade Hub plan

BIAWAK should be developed into an international economic hub linking Sarawak with West Kalimantan, Indonesia, to unlock cross-border trade, attract investment and create jobs for rural communities

Opar assemblyman, Billy Sujang said Biawak had the potential to become more than a border crossing point, serving as a centre for trade, logistics, agricultural distribution and economic activities.

He said the proposal aligned with Sarawak’s ambition to build a high-income economy, strengthen regional ties and improve the livelihoods of rural communities.

Billy cited Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s statement on September 27, 2026, that Biawak would be strengthened as a strategic gateway for cross-border economic activities, with opportunities to expand trade networks with Kalimantan and ASEAN.

He stressed that upgrading the Biawak Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) complex was crucial to realising the vision.

“The improvements should include modern trade and logistics infrastructure, efficient border management, facilities for international commercial vehicles, inspection areas and digital documentation systems, alongside enhanced immigration, customs, quarantine and security facilities,” he said when debating the Sarawak Budget 2027 at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.

On rural development, Billy said 187 projects worth RM150 million had been approved for Opar under the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA), alongside 170 Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) projects worth RM25 million.

Of the GKCDA projects, 42 had been completed, 72 were being implemented, 66 remained in planning or tender procurement stages, while seven had yet to commence.

The projects cover village road paving, agricultural roads, water supply systems, community halls, paddy field improvements, street lighting and other essential infrastructure.

Under RTP, almost all projects had been implemented, except for several approved in 2026 that were still undergoing procurement.

These include community halls, agricultural roads, drainage systems, gravity-fed water supply systems, sports facilities and school repairs.

Billy said the projects might have relatively small allocations individually, but their impact on rural communities was significant.

“Agricultural roads, for instance, would help farmers access their farms, transport equipment and fertilisers, and deliver produce to markets faster, reducing transportation costs and keeping produce fresh.

“Reliable clean water and electricity supplies would also improve public health, quality of life and economic opportunities while supporting children’s education,” he said.

He emphasised that basic amenities were not luxuries but essential foundations for a more comfortable, productive and prosperous rural community.

Billy said continued investment in rural infrastructure, alongside strategic border development, would help Opar strengthen its economic potential and contribute to Sarawak’s broader development ambitions.