KUCHING (Jan 10): Sarawak has expressed support for the extension of the proposed Trans-Borneo Railway across borders into Kalimantan, Indonesia.

The move is seen as a strategic initiative to strengthen economic ties, trade, and regional mobility across Borneo.

The matter was disclosed by Indonesian Consul General in Kuching, Dr Abdullah Zulkifli, following a courtesy call on Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Satria Pertiwi Complex here yesterday.

According to a report by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Abdullah said that the initiative, if realised, would hold the potential in significantly enhancing the connectivity between Sarawak and Kalimantan, while strengthening bilateral trade networks.

“During the meeting, the Sarawak Premier encouraged the expansion of a connectivity network, namely the Trans-Borneo Railway, to Kalimantan,” he told the reporters here.

“This presents a good opportunity to promote cooperation between Kalimantan and Sarawak, and across the whole of Borneo, to develop the region into an integrated economic and trading area that benefits all parties.”

The courtesy call marked Abdullah’s first official visit to the Premier since assuming his post in October last year.

He further emphasised that improving connectivity, particularly between Indonesia and Sarawak, remained among his top priorities, especially with Kuching set to host the opening ceremony of the SEA Games next year.

“While I am here, my main focus is on enhancing connectivity and cooperation, including people-to-people connectivity.

“At present, the ties between Kuching and Pontianak are already established, with Kuching being the closest major city to Kalimantan,” he said.

Abdullah also noted that with the SEA Games opening ceremony scheduled for Kuching in 2027, an increase in visitors from Indonesia to Sarawak would be expected.

“In 2025, when we had just arrived, the Borneo Games were taking place, and in 2027, the Borneo Games will be hosted in East Kalimantan,” he added.

Credits: Samuel Aubrey, The Borneo Post 2026