Sarawak studies border development master plan

THE Sarawak government is conducting a feasibility study for the Sarawak Border Area Development Master Plan.

Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the study was being undertaken in response to the growing strategic importance of Sarawak’s border areas.

“This includes Indonesia’s decision to relocate its capital to Nusantara in East Kalimantan, as well as the need to strengthen Sarawak’s position as a logistics gateway, economic partner and strategic link within Borneo and the wider ASEAN region,” he said in response to Billy Sujan (GPS-Opar) during question and answer session on Thursday (Oct 15).

He said the master plan aims to transform Sarawak’s border areas from peripheral regions into strategic gateways for trade, investment and connectivity, while enhancing security.

The study is expected to be completed by the end of this year. Upon completion, its findings and recommendations will be thoroughly reviewed to identify suitable projects for phased implementation based on priorities, needs and implementation readiness, subject to the availability of allocations and the relevant approvals.

Abdul Karim said the proposal to upgrade the Biawak Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex has also been given due consideration and included in the scope of the study.

He said in addition to upgrading the ICQS facilities and infrastructure, the study also takes into account proposals and initiatives related to development and improvements in the socioeconomic status of the Biawak area.

To a supplementary question, Abdul Karim said the approved Sarawak Border Development Project at ICQS Biawak is the Sarawak Border Project-Construction of Monuments at Strategic National Border Locations.

He said the project is currently in the final stage of the design phase, and the Letter of Acceptance (SST) for preliminary works is expected to be issued in the fourth quarter of 2026.

He said the implementing agency is the Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR Sarawak).

“The total cost of the Sarawak Border Project – Construction of Monuments at Strategic National Border Locations is RM3.0 million, covering Telok Melano Border Control Post (PKS), Ba’kelalan Border Control Post, Lawas, Tebedu ICQS Complex, Serian, Biawak ICQS Complex, Lundu and Lubok Antu ICQS Complex, Sri Aman,” he said.