Make central Sarawak a logistics hub to drive Sibu’s growth, says Sheda

SIBU (Aug 30): The Sarawak government has been urged to explore turning the central region into a logistics hub to spur growth in Sibu’s real estate market, economy, and society at large.

Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers Association (Sheda) Sibu branch chairman Wong Siong Nee made the call when speaking at the opening of the Sheda Home and Property Roadshow 2025 yesterday.

The event, officiated by Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang, carried the theme “Home in Sibu, where dreams come true”.

Wong said Sibu’s role as a key transit point had grown since the completion of the Pan Borneo Highway.

“In order to further propel growth in Sibu’s real estate market, economy, and society at large, we therefore hope that the Sarawak government will take into consideration turning the Central Region into a logistics hub,” he said.

He also suggested leveraging the Rajang River’s potential, particularly in aquaculture, by linking local fisheries products to Asean markets under the Sarawak government’s Food Basket Plan.

He highlighted that population growth will follow employment growth, enabling Sibu to recover economically from the decline of the timber industry.

Such efforts would generate foreign exchange and create employment opportunities. Population growth will naturally follow employment growth, enabling Sibu to recover from the decline of the timber industry, he added.

Wong noted that the private sector is expanding into healthcare, while government-led initiatives such as the Bukit Assek Redevelopment Plan will be pivotal to Sibu’s next economic boom.

He also highlighted Sibu’s cultural pride, citing monuments honouring early pioneers and landmarks such as the Tua Pek Kong Temple and Wong Nai Siong Street, alongside its slower pace of life compared to Kuching.

“It’s a vibrant town with a strong cultural heritage and friendly locals. It is also a popular place to invest in and own real estate because it is home to many of us. We are delighted to announce that our event’s slogan is ‘Home in Sibu, where dreams come true’,” he said.

Meanwhile, organising chairman Wilson Law said Sibu is expanding steadily, with rising demand for housing and commercial space.

“The demand for housing and commercial space is rising. At the same time, buyers these days are not only looking for homes that are affordable but also sustainable, innovative and suited for modern lifestyle.

“This expo provides excellent opportunity and platform to address all those needs,” he said.

Also present were Sheda president Augustine Wong, Sheda Sibu branch deputy chairman Cecil Lau, and Councillor Kevin Lau.