KUALA LUMPUR: There are no specific plans to establish a special economic zone along the border between Sarawak, Brunei and Kalimantan, the Dewan Rakyat was told.
Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli said the government, through the ministry, however, had no qualms to explore and review such proposals in the near future.
"Currently, the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area is available to promote cooperation in various focus areas, including investment cooperation.
"The state governments of Sarawak, Sabah and Labuan are also encouraged to enhance further cooperation with neighbouring countries namely Brunei, Indonesia and the Philippines for regional economic development," he said in a parliamentary written reply.
Rafizi said this in response to Edwin Anak Banta (GPS-Selangau) who enquired about plans to establish a special economic zone along the border between Sarawak, Brunei and Kalimantan to boost the economic growth in border areas.
On Saturday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said political stability and clear policies upheld by Sarawak's leadership have enabled the state to emerge as a new economic powerhouse in Malaysia.
He also said Sarawak has demonstrated impressive economic growth, contributing to increased interest from foreign investors.
The prime minister also said Sarawak's investment figures last year were the highest in the nation's history.
ENDS