KUCHING: More than 200 local and international delegates will be flying into the state’s capital for the inaugural Sarawak Dialogue, which will be held from February 26 to 28.
The three-day event, themed as “Sarawak, The Bridge to New Beginnings”, is organised by the state government with the objective to attract partnerships and investors from various industries, including digital economy, tourism, education, and health.
Organising chairman Adrain Jerome said the specific goal is to attract choice investors and leading decision-makers of premier local and international corporations to the state to spearhead development and progress for its 2.6 million citizens.
“The event will enable much business discussions to be conducted among the delegates. Four key industry sectors, namely digital economy, education, health and tourism are being earmarked to elevate the state’s current socio-economic status, accelerate its development, growth and future prospects so as to enable it to become more self-sufficient.
“The state senior cabinet ministers will share the state’s roadmap for these industries, followed by dedicated sessions where panellists will discuss and add their views and suggestions,” he said in a statement here.
Some of the speakers will include AirAsia group chief executive officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes; Stanley Yang and Khailee Ng from USA’s Silicon Valley; MATRADE CEO Dr Mod Shahreen Zainooreen Madros; Ukrainian ambassador to Malaysia Olexander Nechytaylo; Chief Advisor for Digital Economy of Sarawak Prof Jugdutt Singh; and Tan Chee Peng of Business Technovise International Singapore.
“We want people to share their business journey garnered over the years, discuss both opportunities and constraints, help to address immediate and existing needs that will eventually help formulate new project partnerships for the state and potential investors,” he explained.
Apart from that, the dialogue, which will be held at Riverside Majestic Hotel, will also act as a platform for delegates to pursue discussions and partnerships of possible win-win business ventures.
“Whilst many other countries face a rather stagnant growth future, Sarawak is on a threshold of engaging potential individuals and companies to pursue fresh business-cum-economic openings,” he said.
“The changing times are fraught with challenges faced by every country and sector. However, with commitment, both the Sarawak government and the people can look forward towards a proper well-planned future,” he added.