Sarawak Targets Water Export — Creating a New Engine for Economic Growth
Did you know? Sarawak is eyeing water exports, turning its abundant water resources into a new economic source for the state. Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said this strategy is a key step to prevent Sarawak from falling into the “middle-income trap” and is an important part of diversifying the state’s economy.
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Sarawak Water Export Strategy — Key Highlights
Overview
• Initiator: Sarawak State Government
• Economic Goal: Export water as a new source of income
• Strategic Positioning: Aligns with long-term plan to avoid the middle-income trap
• Timeline: Next 5–10 years
• Core Principle: Innovation, self-reliance, and independent economic development
• Focus Sectors: Water supply, support for data centers
• Geographic Advantage: Abundant rivers and water resources
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Core Features
Water as a New Economic Asset
• Water is set to become a critical commodity with trade potential
• Supports data center operations: AI and data centers rely on energy and water
• Emphasizes innovation and self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on external sources
• Leverages Sarawak’s natural advantage of numerous rivers
Regional and International Impact
• Positions Sarawak as an economic highlight in Malaysia
• Shares energy and resources with ASEAN countries
• Aims to make Sarawak a regional economic player and water export hub
• Enhances Sarawak’s strategic role within ASEAN
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Implementation and Development Directions
① New Economy Talent Development
• Starting 2026, cultivate talent suitable for the new economy
• Develop workforce capable of innovation and generating new growth drivers
• Avoid reliance on traditional economic models to prevent development bottlenecks
② Long-Term Economic Layout
• Diversify the economy, with water export as a new growth driver
• Create new value to support long-term growth
• Integrate emerging industries such as energy, data centers, and AI
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Strategic Significance
• Prevents the middle-income trap and drives economic upgrading
• Strengthens Sarawak’s self-reliant innovation capability
• Creates new industrial chains and job opportunities
• Enhances competitiveness in Malaysia and ASEAN
• Lays the foundation for 10–20 years of sustainable economic growth
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📍 Sarawak Water Export — More Than Just a Resource
It’s not just about exporting water; it’s part of Sarawak’s broader new economic strategy.
Through innovation, self-reliance, and regional collaboration, Sarawak is shaping a new economic landscape and building a sustainable future for the state.
Do you think Sarawak can leverage its water resources to become a new economic highlight in ASEAN?
