SIBU: Local contractors are urged to actively explore international markets and not remain reliant on domestic projects which are gradually declining in number.

Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian acknowledged the hesitation among contractors to embark on new projects due to the high investment risks with potentially limited returns, especially as several major infrastructure projects near completion.

"Major projects such as the Coastal Highway and the Second Trunk Road (STR) are expected to be completed next year, while the RM17 billion Pan Borneo Project is currently in its final phase. 

“Only the deep-sea port and international airport projects remain in the planning stage. When all these projects are completed, there will be no more major projects on offer. 

“So, contractors are worried about the returns if they continue to invest heavily,” he said.

He spoke at the Swearing-In Ceremony for councillors of the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) for the 2025-2028 term, held at the SMC Office on Tuesday.

Datuk Amar Dr. Sim noted that while local contractors previously benefited from major infrastructure projects such as the Pan Borneo Highway, such opportunities are now becoming increasingly scarce.

As such, he encouraged contractors to boost their competitiveness and use Sarawak as a launching pad to penetrate overseas markets such as Indonesia.

He also cited the example of Chinese companies which currently dominate many large-scale projects in Sarawak due to their boldness in entering the global market.

“20 years ago, who had heard of Chinese companies? Now they are executing the majority of large projects here. Perhaps we lack the know-how, or we are unable to offer prices as low as theirs. That’s the reality,” he added.

Meanwhile, Clarence Ting Ing Horh has been reappointed as SMC Chairman for the 2025-2028 term. -UKASnews