APAU KAYAN - The Deputy or Deputy Minister (Wamen) of Sarawak, Malaysia, Datuk Wilson Uga Anak Kumbong, made a working visit to the Apau Kayan border region, Malinau Regency, North Kalimantan (Kaltara). One of them reviewed the facilities of the Long Nawang Border Crossing Post (PLBN), Kayan Hulu District, Wednesday (25/3/2026). This visit is part of efforts to strengthen synergy between Malaysia and Indonesia, especially in improving cross-border services and connectivity in border areas.
Wilson was accompanied by a number of Sarawak officials, including the Regent or Resident of Kapit Division, Elvis Anak Didit, the Resident of Miri Division, Galong Anak Luan and several regional officials and elements of the Kapit civil service and Wilson's wife, Datin Lita, saw the condition of the Long Nawang PLBN facilities and infrastructure.
He assessed that the existence of PLBN has a strategic role in encouraging economic and social activities, as well as strengthening cross-country community relations.
"For the construction of ICQS (Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, Security) or PLBN in the Sarawak region is the authority of the Malaysian central government. But we will We will unite this application and bring it to the authorities in the central government for development in the Sarawak region," said Wilson.
Wilson admitted that he was impressed with Indonesia's readiness, especially in Kaltara, which had built a PLBN with complete facilities.
"I am amazed by the development of PLBN in Indonesia. I will report this to the Malaysian government for reference," he said.
Wilson said the construction of similar facilities in Sarawak was still in the planning stage, but was optimistic that it could be accelerated through coordination at the central level.
"The presence of the PLBN on both sides of the border will facilitate community mobility and encourage cross-border trade activities, especially for inland residents," said Wilson.
"If this facility exists, the movement of people between Long Nawang and Kapit will be easier and have a big impact on the economy," he continued.
He explained that in addition to being a gateway to the country, the PLBN concept in Sarawak will also be developed as an integrated economic center, including trading facilities and community services.
"This visit is part of efforts to strengthen synergy between Malaysia and Indonesia, especially in improving cross-border services and connectivity in the border area which has been a mobility route for the people of the two countries," he explained.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor (Wagub) of Kaltara, Ingkong Ala, expressed his appreciation for the visit of the delegation from Sarawak which was considered an important momentum to strengthen the collaboration between the two countries in the border area.
"We really appreciate and thank you for the visit from Sarawak. This is an important step to encourage the acceleration of development in the border area," he said.
Ingkong emphasized that the people in the border areas of Indonesia and Sarawak have historical and cultural closeness as one group, so they need joint attention from both countries.
"The hope of the border community on both sides is the same, namely that there is balanced attention and development. This meeting is expected to encourage the acceleration of PLBN development in Sarawak," he said.
He revealed that if the PLBN facilities in both countries are optimally developed, it will have a direct impact on economic growth and a more orderly and legal trading system.
"This will accelerate economic growth, improve the trade system, and open up opportunities for cooperation in various sectors such as education, health, and security," he explained.
In addition, PLBN Long Nawang which is considered to have a strategic position and important connectivity, including access to the Nusantara Capital City (IKN).
"From Long Nawang PLBN to IKN is approximately 700 kilometers. This shows that the position of this area is very strategic in the future," he said.
He added that all aspirations and plans for cooperation discussed during the visit would be fought through the respective governments.
"The main thing is the welfare of the border community, we hope that this collaboration will have a real impact on the Kaltara community, especially in Malinau and Apau Kayan," he concluded.
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