KUALA LUMPUR: The Sarawak state government has set up an office in Singapore as part of ongoing efforts to explore the global market, boost trade and attract more tourists to the Land of the Hornbills.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg said trade between Singapore and Sarawak is expected to increase by 30 per cent next year following the establishment of the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS).
"We are confident that investment in the Island republic would give Sarawak’s economy a push as Singapore is a global trading hub. STATOS will re-establish and enhance our historical trade with Singapore as we have been doing trade since the Rajah’s time,” he said during the launch of STATOS in Singapore today.
Last year, Sarawak’s total export to Singapore was RM1.2 billion, while the total import was RM1.6billion. The major items traded between Sarawak and Singapore were machinery and transport equipment, mineral fuels, lubricants and food.
The office will serve as a one-stop centre for investment and businesses as well as tourism players in Singapore to know more about Sarawak.
It will also be the hub of communication between exporters and importers from Sarawak and business communities in Singapore.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Tourism Board chief executive officer Sharzede Salleh Askor said STATOS would be able to facilitate and boost Sarawak tourism in several ways.
"One of which includes gaining a better understanding of tourist preference and expenditure patterns in Singapore.
"This will enable the formulation of innovative product packages, attractive incentives, facilitate engagement with travel agents, tour operators, airlines, hotels, restaurant and tour guides to meet tourist requirements," she said.
The office will also be used to push its tourism marketing and promotional efforts with tourism industry players through meetings, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) on opportunities available in the Sarawak tourism industry, she added.
The STATOS office is located at 80, Robinson Road, Singapore 068898 and is open from 9.00am to 6.00pm from Monday to Friday.