One of the biggest boasts Sarawak can make is that it exudes consistent political serenity, unlike the states of Kelantan, Kedah and Terengganu which have to grapple with Umno and PAS’s divisive politics.
Home to the inclusive Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), and also housing local chapters of PKR and DAP, these forces synergise to bolster the federal unity government.
The absence of radical parties, especially PAS, allows Sarawak to pioneer unique policies, markedly different from Peninsular Malaysia which has seen Perikatan Nasional sweep to electoral victory recently.
Those victories have showcased PAS’s horrid tactic of repeatedly playing the race and religion card, while branding supporters of their opponents “anti-Islam”.
Yet, once they seize power, governance collapses, resulting in a loss of foreign investment and a failure to create jobs.
Marine-related industries
Where the peninsula has lagged in maritime pursuits, Sarawak has sailed ahead.
The Bornean state’s unique landscape has necessitated advanced maritime transport for both passengers and goods. Its dependence on river transportation is also well documented.
This has sparked a boom in the shipbuilding and repair sectors, particularly in cities like Kuching, Sibu, and Miri.
Local expertise has solidified this industry, warranting the Malaysian government’s attention to elevate it as an economic linchpin.
What is needed now are more investors, financiers, technological partners and specialised training institutes for skilled manpower, all of which will be essential for the next level of progress.
Quick Takes :
- Sarawak offers investors stable utilities. In particular, the state is able to assure consistent power and water supply.
- Sarawak also has an abundance of industrial land equipped with essential infrastructure such as deep sea ports in Bintulu and the brand new Pan-Borneo highway, which is toll free.
- Sans PAS, Sarawak remains untouched by the upheavals disturbing states like Kelantan, Kedah and Terengganu. If Penang and Selangor follows suit, current investors would be compelled to re-examine their investment portfolios.
- In contrast, Sarawak’s pluralistic approach to religion fosters a harmonious sociopolitical ambience steeped in cultural values and heritage.
Spotlight on English
Sarawak’s government offers priority to pivotal reforms, exemplified by their stance on English education (see: The Malaysian education dilemma: need for strong political will).
The resulting linguistic prowess of Sarawakian graduates stands out even in West Malaysia.
For investors, a workforce adept in English spells competence and reliability.
Sarawak’s fabric of an inclusive community has also provided the state with a headstart when it comes to attracting new investors.
In particular, Sarawak –
- avoids narrow-mindedness
- is enveloped in a rich cultural tapestry
- celebrates a myriad of traditions and artforms.
Meanwhile, under PAS rule, states like Kelantan, Kedah and Terengganu tread on thin ice as they veer towards extremism. On top of that, the peninsula’s educational shortcomings are glaring but are being left unattended.
The remedy for investors?
Worried investors need look no further than Sarawak, whose holistic curriculum which intertwines English and technical proficiency and celebrating Malaysia’s true diverse heritage will stand its youth in good stead for global challenges.
If Peninsular Malaysia looks like it has a long way to go to becoming investor-friendly again, look east to Sarawak, Malaysia’s future investment hub. - FMT
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.