{
  "id": 20174696,
  "title": "Sarawak can be second-largest exporter by 2030, says Abang Johari",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/15/sarawak-can-be-second-largest-exporter-by-2030-says-abang-johari",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-15T12:13:59.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/11/15/sarawak-can-be-second-largest-exporter-by-2030-says-abang-johari"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Sarawak, led by its premier Abang Johari Openg, is setting its sights on becoming Malaysia's second-largest exporter by 2030, surpassing Selangor and Johor, according to a report. Currently ranked fourth behind Penang, Selangor, and Johor, the state is narrowing the gap with Johor and Selangor due to the rapid expansion of its industrial and energy sectors.\n\nAbang Johari, speaking at a Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu delegates conference in Kuching, emphasized that Sarawak could become a major exporter for the entire Malaysian economy, positioning the state as a hub for Asia, the region, and the world. He highlighted several key developments that could drive further growth, including methanol and carbon capture projects, an $800 million investment by SoftBank Group in an AI data center, expansion of a Western Digital chip-making plant, and the expansion of the Samalaju industrial park.\n\nThe premier also stressed that Sarawak's economic transformation is being supported by investments in advanced technology and high-value industries. The state is increasingly involved in emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and semiconductor design. Abang Johari noted that Sarawak should not merely consume technology but should also create it. The state's free tertiary education policy is playing a significant role in attracting high-technology investments by providing a pipeline of graduates skilled in fields relevant to AI and other advanced technologies.",
  "summary": "The state premier says Sarawak currently ranks behind Penang, Selangor and Johor but the gap was narrowing.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}