Singapore, 25 September 2025 — The Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SMCCI), in partnership with the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS), successfully concluded a high-level Business Mission to Sarawak from 21–23 September 2025. The mission brought together over 20 Singaporean delegates from seven key industries, including education, healthcare, halal F&B, logistics, construction, digital technology, and the creative sector.
Opening Doors for Cross-Border Collaboration
The three-day programme in Kuching, Sarawak, aimed to open new pathways for regional collaboration and market access. Delegates engaged in exclusive B2B networking sessions, visited innovation hubs such as Sundrop Fruit Juice and Kit Hin, and held dialogues with government agencies and business associations. Closed-door briefings with the Sarawak Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI), Sarawak Manufacturers Association (SMA), Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority (RISDA), and the Dewan Usahawan Bumiputera Sarawak (DUBS) provided participants with practical insights into halal certification, business incorporation processes, and regulatory requirements.
The mission also featured a networking reception officiated by YBhg. Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy State Secretary of Sarawak (Operation) and Director of STATOS, alongside a STATOS-hosted dinner with business leaders and cultural visits that highlighted Sarawak’s heritage and entrepreneurial vibrancy.
Sarawak’s Growing Economic Potential
With a GDP of RM148.7 billion in 2023, contributing 9.5% of Malaysia’s total output, and an SME sector valued at RM29.7 billion in 2022, Sarawak is fast emerging as a regional growth hub. Backed by investments in infrastructure, renewable energy, food production, the digital economy, aerospace, and halal manufacturing, it provides a strong foundation for Singaporean SMEs to scale regionally and build resilient supply chains.
Commitment to Regional Growth
“Sarawak presents untapped potential for our members, not just in commerce but in building bilateral trade relationships rooted in shared values and regional strengths,” said Mr. Raja Mohamad, Mission Leader and SMCCI Board Member. “We’re proud to work with STATOS as a strategic partner to bridge Singapore’s business community with the vibrant growth landscape in Sarawak.”
Participants also shared their positive experiences. Mr. Ridjal Noor, Managing Director of Saffron Services, shared, “Sarawak has impressive manufacturing capabilities and a wealth of ideas and innovation. The region is growing rapidly, and I see tremendous opportunities for Singapore business owners to tap into these strengths not only to reinforce our local market presence but also to expand internationally.”
Ms. Ili Shahirah, Director and Founder of Associates’ Circle Pte Ltd, added: “Through this mission, I met many potential collaborators, including one whose work in AI aligns with what my company is venturing into. Sarawak’s advancement in the digital economy makes it an exciting place to explore and embrace the possibilities of AI.”
The mission reinforced SMCCI’s dedication to empowering SMEs with access to new markets, enhancing business capabilities, and forming strategic partnerships. By positioning Sarawak as both a gateway to East Malaysia and a launchpad for regional growth, SMCCI continues to promote the vision of building a resilient, connected, and future-ready business community.