RECODA’s Role in SCORE and Sarawak: A Catalyst for Growth and Development

Since its establishment in 2006, the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA) has been at the heart of Sarawak’s transformation. Tasked with spearheading the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE), RECODA has become a driving force behind Sarawak’s journey toward industrialisation, investment attraction, and socioeconomic development. In line with Sarawak’s Digital Agenda, RECODA supports digital advancement through infrastructure development, fostering connectivity that underpins the state’s broader objectives for digital transformation and sustainable growth. Covering 80% of the state, RECODA plays a pivotal role in advancing Sarawak’s ambitious goal of positioning itself as a competitive player in both regional and global markets paving the way for sustainable growth.

SCORE spans approximately 100,000 km² across both coastal and interior regions of Sarawak, with the interior areas strategically divided into three regional development agencies—URDA, HDA, and NRDA.

At the core of RECODA’s mission lies its ability to attract sustainable investments that harness Sarawak’s renewable energy resources. As a result, SCORE has emerged as a magnet for industries seeking cost-effective green energy solutions, paired with world-class infrastructure. From 2009 to 2024, the corridor successfully attracted RM123 billion in investments, creating over 53,829 jobs, many in high-skilled sectors critical to the state’s future.

One of SCORE’s crown jewels is the Samalaju Industrial Park (SIP), a prime example of how RECODA is fostering growth through strategic partnerships. By 2024, SIP had attracted 14 investors, securing RM55.07 billion in realised investments and generating over 13,600 high-skilled jobs. Investors from China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, South Africa, and Australia are drawn to its strategic location and reliable access to renewable energy, making Sarawak a hub for sustainable industries.

Beyond infrastructure and investment, RECODA is deeply committed to promoting value-added industries that go beyond traditional resource extraction. Sarawak’s rich deposits of timber, oil, gas, and minerals are being tapped for advanced manufacturing and high-value sectors. This focus not only ensures the state’s long-term economic resilience but also positions Sarawak as a leader in green industrialisation, creating industries that are both economically and environmentally sustainable.

RECODA’s commitment extends beyond industrial development—it also focuses on uplifting Sarawak’s underserved populations through targeted socioeconomic programmes. A notable initiative is the COMMUNITY@SCORE 2022 Programme, which supports agriculture, aquaculture, and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) by providing essential resources, training, and infrastructure. These efforts aim to boost household incomes, strengthen rural economies, and build more resilient communities. Through these initiatives, RECODA ensures that rural populations have the tools and infrastructure necessary to actively contribute to Sarawak’s economic growth.

Through its Inisiatif Pendapatan Rakyat (IPR), RECODA bridges the urban-rural gap with programmes like Basmi Miskin Tegar (BMT) to eradicate poverty, and initiatives such as Inisiatif Usahawan Tani (IPR-INTAN) and Inisiatif Usahawan Makanan (IPR-INSAN) to empower agriculture and food-based micro-entrepreneurs. Notably, IPR-INSAN’s vending machines in Kuching create new opportunities for local entrepreneurs, driving economic growth through innovation.

Infrastructure is the cornerstone of Sarawak’s economic strategy, and RECODA is the architect behind many large-scale projects that are vital to the state’s growth. Projects like the Northern Coastal Highway (NCH), Miri–Marudi, Marudi–Mulu (Long Melinau) and Long Panai–Long Lama (MMMLL) Roads, and Border Projects in Ba’ Kelalan and Bario are designed to enhance connectivity within Sarawak and with neighbouring countries like Brunei and Indonesia.

Additionally, RECODA has implemented hundreds of smaller, yet vital, infrastructure projects—roads, bridges, and water supply systems—that directly improve the quality of life for local communities. Guided by Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, RECODA ensures that these projects not only support economic growth but also prioritise sustainability and environmental stewardship.

As Sarawak strives to achieve its long-term development goals, particularly those outlined in the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, RECODA is at the forefront of this transformative journey. Employing a three-pronged strategy focused on investment, socioeconomic upliftment, and infrastructure development, RECODA is dedicated to positioning Sarawak as a vibrant hub for regional and global markets.

By attracting high-value investments, promoting technological innovation, and enhancing human capital, RECODA is laying the groundwork for Sarawak to emerge as a competitive player on the global stage.

RECODA’s multifaceted role extends to managing SCORE’s extensive infrastructure projects, which are designed to uplift local communities and drive socioeconomic development. By integrating infrastructure development with socioeconomic initiatives, RECODA is creating a more inclusive and sustainable economy.

Disclaimer: All figures in this article are under the purview of the RECODA and are for informational purposes only. For specific details regarding investments and initiatives, please refer to official RECODA communications.