The Malaysian state of Sarawak will strengthen collaboration with China in the rubber industry, especially in processing technology for the upstream and downstream sector, in order torealise the state’s Rural Transformation Programme (RTP), said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah.
Sarawak’s plan to create “Fruit Baskets” was also discussed in a recent meeting between Uggah and a delegation from China led by the Director-General of General Bureau of Guangdong State Farms and Guangdong Agribusiness Group Corporation Chairman, Chen Shaoping.
“My meeting with the top management of Guangken Group focused on our efforts to continue cooperation at a higher level in the development of the rubber industry, not only for downstream but also covers the upstream sector,” Uggah said after the meeting.
Also present was Guangken Rubber Group Co Ltd Chairman Chen Ming.
Uggah said the discussions were positive and this would help in the state government’s efforts to implement the RTP.
“I also told them about our plans to develop the Fruit Baskets in Sarikei, Bintangor and Betong, and invited them to join in and bring their experience and technology to help us, as well as market our products,” said Uggah.
Meanwhile, Chen Shaoping said this was his third visit to Sarawak and he extended an invitation to Sarawak Chief Minister, Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg, Uggah and rubber industry players in the state to visit Guangdong and see for themselves the rubber industries in the province.
Chen welcomed Sarawak’s plans to enhance collaboration in the rubber industry and the idea for the Fruit Baskets.