Langella (left) greets Abang Johari during the courtesy visit. – Ukas photo
KUCHING (April 15): Italy has expressed keen interest in exploring strategic collaboration opportunities in Sarawak’s energy and aerospace sectors following a recent courtesy visit to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Italian Ambassador to Malaysia Raffaele Langella said several Italian business delegations are expected to visit Sarawak to explore potential investment opportunities.
According to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report, he said priority areas include the energy sector, particularly infrastructure and technology for energy production, including renewable energy.
“We are very interested in the Asean grid as well as all projects related to the mega project. We are also very active in biofuels and this has become one of the priorities of the Sarawak government,” Langella told a press conference.
“It is increasingly becoming an essential requirement based on the current situation in the global energy market,” he added.
Langella also highlighted potential collaboration in the aerospace sector, noting Italy’s long-standing expertise in the field.
“Many people are unaware that Italy was the third country in the world to launch a satellite into space some 70 to 80 years ago, after the United States of America and the Soviet Union.
“Since then, we have remained active in this field and developed a strong aerospace industry.
“This is also an area that has attracted significant interest from the Sarawak government, and where collaboration can be pursued,” he said.
He also expressed interest in Sarawak’s traditional design sector and the work of young designers in the state.
“This group should be introduced to leading Italian designers to further develop the design industry through collaboration between both parties,” he said.
