Biawak to be empowered as strategic gateway for cross-border economic activities between Sarawak and Kalimantan, says premier

LUNDU, Sept 27 2026: The border town of Biawak will be empowered as a strategic gateway for cross-border economic activities  between Sarawak and Kalimantan.

Caption: Premier Abang Johari Openg said the border gateway in Biawak will serve as key channel for Malaysia-Indonesia trade and economic cooperation

Premier Abang Johari Openg explained that upgrading the Biawak border post is expected to serve as a catalyst to strengthen economic and business ties between Sarawak and Kalimantan.

He added that the move aligns with ongoing efforts to establish a Bornean economic cooperation network that can subsequently interface with the regional ASEAN economy.

“One matter I wish to highlight regarding Kalimantan is that we will upgrade the border gateway in Biawak. This will serve as a key channel for cooperation between Indonesia and Malaysia, which will undoubtedly impact Sarawak, and this connection will further reinforce economic relations between both nations." he said at the closing of the Batang Kayan Regatta today.

He said he recently  received a courtesy call from the Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry alongside his delegation, who expressed their intent to establish a Bornean economic cooperation network.

"This represents a fresh opportunity to strengthen cooperation capable of driving deeper economic development, thereby boosting economic growth across this region," he added.

The premier also said that Sampadi is set to become a key catalyst for establishing a new development corridor in Lundu through an integrated development plan combining residential settlements, education, infrastructure, and technology over the next five years.

Hr said the plan includes transforming Sampadi into a smart town equipped with modern amenities, as well as executing a resettlement programme to support the region's growth.

He said Sampadi’s proximity to the new i-CATS University campus in Trombol provides a strategic advantage, as the educational institution's development is expected to spur growth in the surrounding areas.

“Over the next five years, we will carry out organic planning so that it becomes an attraction as well as a location for a 'resettlement programme' with modern amenities, which hopefully can evolve into a smart town complete with IT infrastructure," he said.

He noted that the Sarawak government is reinforcing the area’s connectivity network by ensuring the completion of the Rambungan Bridge, which is now targeted for completion in 2027 following the appointment of a new contractor and the allocation of additional funding.

He added that these developments will complete the road connectivity to Tanjung Datu, thereby unlocking further opportunities for economic growth, tourism, and residential development in the surrounding areas.