Malaysia, West Kalimantan Have Great Potential In Various Sectors: Malaysian Consul

By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar

JAKARTA, Sept 25 (Bernama) — The active movement of Malaysians and Indonesians across the Sarawak–West Kalimantan border reflects strong potential for growth in key sectors such as tourism, education, trade, and healthcare.

Malaysian Consul in Pontianak, Azizul Zekri Abd Rahim, said nearly 500,000 Kalimantan residents visited Sarawak, while around 400,000 Malaysians entered West Kalimantan via land routes last year — reflecting the growing momentum of cross-border cooperation.

He said this potential would be further strengthened with the resumption of direct flights from Pontianak to Kuching and Kuala Lumpur starting September 12, after a five-year suspension, following the reinstatement of Supadio Airport’s status as an international airport in June.

He said this at the 2025 National Day and Malaysia Day Reception held on Monday, according to a statement issued today by the Malaysian Consulate in Pontianak.

The reception was attended by around 400 guests, including West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan, Tanjungpura Regional Military Commander Major General Jamalullael, West Kalimantan Deputy Police Chief Brigadier General Roma Hutajulu, local political figures, and members of the Malaysian community.

Azizul Zekri emphasised that the availability of direct flights would expand people-to-people connections, which had previously been limited to land routes, and would have a positive impact on the economies and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) of both countries, particularly in the border regions.

He added that the visit by a delegation from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), which has established academic cooperation with Universitas Tanjungpura in Pontianak in conjunction with the reception, is further proof that the education sector is benefiting from the close bilateral ties.

Meanwhile, in his speech, Ria expressed his commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations — particularly between West Kalimantan and Sarawak — across various sectors for the benefit of the people in both regions.

The reception was enlivened by a pulut kuning cutting ceremony and cultural performances by Sarawak-based dance group Carma Dance, together with children and staff of the consulate, featuring music, singing, silat, and a theatrical sketch.

Guests were also treated to a vibrant display of traditional Malaysian costumes, including Baju Kurung Kedah and wedding costumes. They enjoyed authentic Malaysian delicacies such as nasi lemak and teh tarik, alongside a selection of 24 different kuih-muih (local traditional cakes and pastries), including the renowned Sarawak layer cake.

-- BERNAMA