KUCHING, Oct 25: Sarawak Medical Innovation Technology Hub (SMITH) is poised to revolutionise Sarawak’s healthcare sector, with the first phase centered on a 36-acre medical glove manufacturing facility in Tanjung Kidurong, Bintulu, situated within the SEDC Petchem Industrial Park.
As such, the Export-Import Bank of Malaysia Bhd (EXIM Bank) recently partnered with SMITH to support its goal.
The project is expected to drive job growth, stimulate the economy, and lower unemployment rates in Sarawak, all while establishing the state as a prominent player in the global pharmaceutical industry. Its overarching goal is to reduce Sarawak’s reliance on imported pharmaceutical equipment and medicines.
“The partnership between EXIM Bank and SMITH is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation and progress in healthcare.
“Together, we provide the financial support and security needed to propel the future of medical technology, ensuring that innovation knows no bounds and unemployment is addressed,” said EXIM Bank President and CEO, Arshad Ismail.
Meanwhile, SMITH CEO, Robert Hardin said the partnership with EXIM Bank – a government-owned Development Financial Institution -shows the confidence given to the SMITH project.
“With this level of support this project will bring growth not only to Tanjung Kidurong in Bintulu but also Sarawak and Malaysia as a whole with more employment opportunities coming as the project progresses,” he said.
SMITH’s strategic location in Bintulu will capture market share in this part of the world with a healthcare-focused commercial network between Pan-Asia, North America, Europe, and the Middle East. – TVS
