Stronger industry-agency ties vital to Sama Jaya growth

KUCHING : Closer collaboration between government agencies and industry players is essential to overcoming operational challenges and sustaining growth at the Sama Jaya Free Industrial Zone, said Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng.

He stressed that reliable essential services, adequate infrastructure and prompt resolution of outstanding issues were vital to maintaining investor confidence and facilitating business expansion.

“Sama Jaya plays an important role in Sarawak’s economy. It brings investment into the state and provides jobs for our people. We want the companies here to continue growing and have confidence in expanding their operations,” he said.

Wee was speaking at the Sama Jaya Industrial Park Management Committee (IPMC) meeting at MBKS on Friday (Oct 9).

He said issues relating to water supply, infrastructure and essential services could directly disrupt daily industrial operations, underscoring the need for effective communication and prompt resolution.

Wee highlighted the close cooperation between MBKS and the Sarawak Electronic and Supporting Industries Companies Association (SECA) in identifying industry concerns and coordinating follow-up actions.

He explained that SECA serves as a channel for its members to raise concerns, while MBKS addresses matters within its jurisdiction, including municipal services, local infrastructure and surrounding areas. Issues involving other agencies are referred to the relevant authorities for coordinated action.

“Our responsibilities are different, but our work complements one another. By keeping in regular contact, we can identify problems earlier and work towards practical solutions,” he said.

Wee added that such cooperation supported Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030) by fostering an industrial environment that attracts investment, encourages business expansion and creates employment opportunities while safeguarding the environment and the wellbeing of nearby communities.

He noted that several meetings had been held since 2024 to address concerns raised by industries, while the Sama Jaya IPMC WhatsApp group provided an additional channel for communication and follow-up between meetings.

He urged the committee to review completed actions and outstanding issues, identify the causes of delays and agree on clear next steps.

“For each issue, we should be clear about which agency will take action and the time needed to do so. This makes it easier for the committee to follow up and for the companies concerned to plan,” he said.

The meeting also featured a briefing by Sarawak Water on water supply management and infrastructure planning, covering current supply capacity, water pressure and quality, contingency arrangements during disruptions and future demand as companies expand.

The Department of Environment also briefed the meeting on environmental requirements and effluent monitoring, including wastewater discharge, emissions and waste disposal.

Wee encouraged industry representatives to seek clarification directly from the relevant agencies and raise concerns involving customs clearance and other regulatory procedures for joint attention.

“As Sama Jaya continues to grow, we must also take care of the surrounding environment and the health of the community. Close cooperation between the companies and the relevant agencies will help us do this,” he said.

He reaffirmed MBKS’ commitment to addressing matters within its jurisdiction and coordinating with other agencies where necessary.