Sarawak Shares Sustainable Urbanisation Experience at ASEAN Forum

suppadmin | August 17, 2025

Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian presented “Health and Sustainable City: The Sarawak Experience” at the Special Session of the ASEAN Sustainable Urbanisation Forum (ASUF), highlighting Sarawak’s journey in balancing development with cultural values and heritage.

Dr Sim said Sarawak, located in the heart of Borneo, faces similar urban challenges as other ASEAN cities, including transport, housing, education, healthcare, and employment. While participating in global initiatives such as the WHO Age-Friendly Cities and UNICEF Child-Friendly Cities Initiative, Sarawak also integrates its unique identity into sustainable development efforts.

“Our path towards zero-carbon cities and nation-building will always reflect Sarawak’s way—preserving our values, cultures, and heritage while moving forward,” he said.

He acknowledged that his presentation was prepared at short notice during his flight to Kuala Lumpur but stressed that ensuring Sarawak’s strong presence at international platforms remained his top priority.

“Yesterday I may have been a bit under the weather, but keeping Sarawak flying high is always the priority. I am grateful for the kind invitation and the opportunity to share Sarawak’s story with ASEAN,” he added.

Dr Sim reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and said the state would continue participating in forums such as the ASEAN Smart Urbanisation Forum (ASUF), the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF), and the Meeting of Governors/Mayors of ASEAN Capitals (MGMAC).

He also joined Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming at the closing of the forum following his special session.