KUCHING: Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg received two courtesy visits at his office at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, here on Tuesday.

The first visit was from the New Zealand High Commissioner to Malaysia, Michael Wehi Mailetonga Walsh.

After the meeting, Walsh informed the media that their discussions emphasised the importance of people-to-people relations between the two countries in an effort to strengthen long-term cooperation.

“We discussed the relationship between New Zealand and Malaysia, particularly in Sarawak.

“We also emphasised the importance of people-to-people relations that have been established for a long time. As friends, it is important to continue to build this relationship for the future,” he said.

He also stated that education is one of the key aspects in strengthening the relationship between the people of Malaysia and New Zealand.

Also present at the meeting was the Director of the Sarawak Regional Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, Fenny Nuli.

The second visit involved the World Economic Forum (WEF) from the Head of Community, Regional and Global Cooperation, Asia-Pacific, Shaun Adam.

According to Adam, their discussions focused on the potential for the establishment of an industrial cluster in Bintulu as well as further understanding of Sarawak’s efforts in the renewable energy transition, especially relating to hydrogen.

“It was a very interesting meeting, where the Premier of Sarawak shared his views on several of the state’s priorities in the coming period.

"We are also looking at opportunities for collaboration,” he said.

Also present at the meeting was the Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Economic Planning and Development), Dato Sri Dr. Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel.-UKASnews