KUCHING, Sept. 27 -- Sarawak will continue to look towards China as a friend and a trading partner, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Abang Johari said China is an important trading partner for Sarawak, second only to Peninsula Malaysia, and the trade volume had reached RM37 billion in 2022 compared to RM27 billion in 2021 and RM21 billion in 2020.

"Sarawak exports to China was worth RM25 billion while imports were valued at RM12 billion in 2022," he added.

Abang Johari's text of speech was delivered by state Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin at a celebration of the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China held at a local restaurant last night.

Adding on, Abang Johari said the...