Sarawak is widening road access to the Tebedu-Entikong border to boost cross-border trade, attract investment and create jobs for local communities
KUCHING: The Sarawak government has widened road access to the Tebedu–Entikong border area to facilitate and strengthen cross-border trade, said Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
He said cross-border trade is an important driver of economic growth, creating market opportunities for local businesses, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), attracting investment and generating employment in border communities.
“We will also continue to engage the federal government to pursue the upgrading of the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) complex in Tebedu and improve cross-border connectivity,” he said when winding up the debate for his ministry at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly here today.
Awang Tengah, who is also the state Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment, said the Sarawak government has commissioned the Sarawak Border Area Development Master Plan, expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2026.
He said the study will identify priority projects, including the proposed upgrading of Biawak ICQS. Implementation will be phased, subject to funding and necessary approvals.
“To further strengthen economic ties with West Kalimantan, the proposed Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office in Pontianak, targeted to commence operations in 2027, will facilitate trade, investment, tourism and business partnerships,” he added.