KOTA KINABALU: The Czech Republic is eyeing Sabah as a potential partner to collaborate in various fields that will benefit both parties.
Czech Environment Minister Richard Brabec said his delegates recently discussed a potential cooperation with the Federal Government in Kuala Lumpur, but noted that there was bigger potential in the state of Sabah.
“Maybe more than in the federal level. We came here with quite a big business mission with plenty of entrepreneurs, academicians and those from export-buying as well as technology agencies,” he said after paying a courtesy call to Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal at the State Administrative Centre, here, today.
Czech Republic Ambassador to Malaysia Milan Hupcej was also present.
Brabec described the discussion with Shafie regarding potential cooperation between Sabah and the Czech Republic as interesting.
He said Shafie had discussed potential collaborations in water and sewage management, and drinking water quality.
“We are starting to face global climate change and it’s necessary to cooperate.
“I agree with the chief minister that this (meeting) is very important to share our experiences in water quality and waste management.
“We are indeed anxious and interested to cooperate with Sabah, with big companies,” he said.
Meanwhile, Shafie hoped the collaboration could be realised to benefit both parties, noting that the Czech Republic was in the midst of identifying potential industries to collaborate with.
He said Sabah was a state with an abundance of untapped resources.
“I’ve highlighted the state government’s focuses such as the industrialisation field, tourism, and food security.
“I am sure they have experience in power, solar and hydro industries.
“We will look at how we can realise cooperation in these fields,” he said.