THE government is committed to ensuring that infrastructure to be developed at the Sabah and Sarawak borders with Kalimantan, Indonesia is of strategic value to attract investor interest, said Economy Minister Mohd Rafizi Ramli.

This is following the creation of Nusantara, which is located in Kalimantan, as Indonesia’s new capital city.

He said the government had identified several initiatives to improve infrastructure connectivity and strengthen border and maritime security.

“Sabah has approved a development allocation of almost RM5.68 billion in 2022 for the implementation of 1,142 projects under various ministries. 

“Our hopes are that with this infrastructure, it can start to attract traders and the public to use the infrastructure connectivity in both countries (Malaysia and Indonesia),” he said during a question-and-answer session at the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was replying to a supplementary question from Andi Muhammad Suryady Bandy (Kalabakan-BN) who wanted to know the challenges that will be faced in realising the strategic plans outlined as well as the initial action plan to address these challenges. 

Rafizi said the government also planned to make Labuan as the financial centre to attract more participation from investors and private companies.

“There is a clear signal from the government that the area and border development will be in focus to further stimulate investment. I see it as an opportunity for Labuan, an offshore financial centre to draw more participation,” he said.

He said to attract investment, trade and industries as well as increase business activities at border areas, the government is aware that the security factor is vital. 

“The government will continue to examine the need to build border control and security posts along the Sabah-Sarawak-Kalimantan border from time to time in line with the plans of the Home Affairs Ministry and state governments,” he added. – Bernama, March 1, 2023.