Entikong-Tebedu free trade deal sealed as key highlight of 13th Malaysia-Indonesia Consultation

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 29: The implementation of free trade between the Entikong border post in West Kalimantan and Tebedu in Sarawak is among the key agreements reached during the 13th Annual Malaysia-Indonesia Consultation held in Jakarta, Indonesia today.

In a TVS news report, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg hailed the move as a significant step towards strengthening economic and energy ties between Sarawak and West Kalimantan.

“This marks a major milestone in enhancing cross-border cooperation, particularly in trade and logistics, which will benefit both regions,” he told reporters after attending a joint press conference with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Asean Secretariat.

Abang Johari emphasised that the free trade initiative will streamline the movement of goods and services across the border, opening up new opportunities for business and economic growth in the border areas.

“This is a crucial development that will strengthen the business network between Sarawak and West Kalimantan,” he said, adding that the initiative is expected to spur local economies and foster deeper collaboration in logistics and commerce.

He also expressed his appreciation to Anwar and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for their commitment to Sarawak’s interests and for facilitating the agreement.

Earlier, Abang Johari accompanied Anwar on a working visit to the Istana Merdeka for a special meeting with Prabowo before joining a delegation visit to the Asean Secretariat, where Anwar delivered a keynote address in conjunction with Malaysia’s Asean Chairmanship in 2025.

Also part of the Malaysian delegation were Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

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