BINTULU: The Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA) recently convened the Samalaju Industrial Park (SIP) Investors Engagement Meeting at the Samalaju Resort, gathering key industry players and relevant government agencies for a focused half- day session aimed at strengthening investor support and addressing operational challenges within the park.
According to a statement, the session was chaired by RECODA Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Ismawi Ismuni, who welcomed participants from agencies and stakeholders including the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), Immigration and Labour Management Unit (ILMU), UNIMAS Business School, and Chemsain Konsultant Sdn. Bhd.
In his welcoming address, Datuk Ismawi stressed that Samalaju Industrial Park continues to play a significant role in driving Sarawak’s industrial growth.
“RECODA remains committed to supporting this progress through continuous investor aftercare and infrastructure improvements.
“Today’s session is part of our broader effort to ensure our investors’ voices are heard and their operational concerns addressed,” he said.
Key infrastructure updates presented during the session included the upcoming Samalaju Water Supply Project, which will boost treated water capacity from 80 Megalitres per Day (MLD) to 200 MLD.
“Construction is scheduled to begin by the end of 2025 and complete by late 2028. In addition, the construction of a 6-kilometre dual carriageway (C1 Road) within the park is currently underway, with completion targeted for February 2027,” the statement said on Tuesday.
Datuk Ismawi noted that strong infrastructure is fundamental to investor confidence.
“Equally important is meaningful dialogue. That’s why platforms like today’s are crucial—not only for updates but also for ensuring Sarawak remains a competitive and business-friendly destination,” he said.
RECODA also briefed participants on the Inisiatif Pendapatan Rakyat – Usahawan Makanan (IPR–INSAN) programme, a key initiative under the Ministry of Economy aimed at improving incomes among the B40 and hardcore poor groups.
The programme empowers micro-entrepreneurs through a modern vending machine business model offering ready-to-eat meals.
In Sarawak, nine locations have been identified by RECODA, with five already in operation. One upcoming site is located within the Sarawak Methanol Complex in Bintulu, where a participant has been identified and will soon commence operations.
During the engagement session, RECODA encouraged SIP investors to explore opportunities to host IPR–INSAN vending machines at their premises.
“This initiative aligns with our inclusive development approach, ensuring the benefits of industrialisation extend to the wider community,” added Datuk Ismawi.
The session concluded with a productive exchange of ideas, reaffirming Sarawak’s commitment to fostering a robust and resilient industrial ecosystem, with RECODA playing a central role in ensuring that both foreign and domestic investors in Samalaju Industrial Park continue to receive the support they need to grow and succeed. -UKASnews
