Liu (right) presents a memento to Jabu. — Photo by Kong Jun Liung
KUCHING: Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu is keen on collaborations between Malaysia and China to further develop the state’s agriculture sector.
Jabu, who is also Minister of Modernisation of Agriculture, believed the state had great agricultural potential, and its development would benefit the rural populace.
“We can look into ways to further develop the agriculture sector so as to develop the rural areas where people can lead a more prosperous life,” he said at a Lunar New Year reception hosted by China’s consul general in Kuching, Liu Quan, at the Crown Square here on Friday.
Jabu represented Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud at the gathering.
On Visit Malaysia Year 2014, Jabu urged all tourism industry players in the country to work as a team in order to woo more tourists from populous China.
“If we work hard, we will be rewarded. Let us all work together for a more prosperous and fruitful year for the general well-being of the people of Malaysia and China.”
Noting that the Chinese consulate here marked its 20th anniversary this year, he assured China’s diplomatic arm here that the state government would support its activities here, especially those pertaining to culture and education.
“On behalf of the Sarawak government, I affirm we will have stronger ties with China, and given the 40 years of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, it is important we maintain such relationship for more successes.”
Before concluding his speech, Jabu proposed a toast to Liu in honour of “good health, good luck, prosperity, longevity and stronger relationship between Malaysia and China.”
Also present were Minister of Local Government and Community Development Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh, Assistant Minister of Communication Datuk Lee Kim Shin, Bandar Kuching MP Chong Chieng Jen, Temenggong Lu Kim Yong, Temenggong Vincent Lau and former Deputy Works Minister Datuk Yong Khoon Seng.