KUCHING — For Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, helping Sarawak’s entrepreneurs go beyond domestic borders is a mission — and global trade expos like Mihas and CIIE are the stepping stones.
Leading a delegation to Shanghai for the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025, the Deputy Premier urged Sarawak’s SMEs to make full use of international trade platforms to elevate their products and attract new buyers abroad.
“SMEs are the backbone of our state economy. By participating in major international events, they can network, learn global standards, and showcase Sarawak’s potential to the world,” said Awang Tengah, who also oversees the International Trade, Industry and Investment Ministry.
Sarawak’s total trade with China hit RM27.3 billion in 2024, dominated by exports of petroleum, palm oil, and chemicals — but Awang Tengah believes the next wave of growth will come from agro-based and halal sectors.
At the Malaysia Pavilion, officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, five Sarawak firms — from gula apong to kek lapis and corned beef — are proving that homegrown products can win hearts abroad.
“It’s encouraging to see such strong response from Chinese buyers. These are not just trade deals — they’re relationships that can last,” he said.
With over 250 companies representing Malaysia at the event, this year’s participation marks the largest in CIIE history. It also underscores the deepening trade ties between Malaysia and China, who marked five decades of diplomatic relations last year.