21/11/2011 (Borneo Post) - The New Economic Model (NEM) will be realised through the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) which will see eight initiatives taken under the Strategic Renewal Initiative (SRI) and the implementation of the 12 National Key Economic Area (NKEA).

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu who is also Layar assemblyman said this. The implementation of the NKEA relied on the resources of a specific area, he explained in replying to Dr Hazland Hipni (BN – Demak Laut) during the question-and-answer session.

For Sarawak, niche areas include the oil, gas and energy sector, palm oil, tourism, electrical and electronics, wholesale, retailers and agriculture.

He said NKEA would contribute to the development of the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE), which would push the state to achieve the new economic model.

And to ensure youths grab the work and business opportunities in SCORE, the government would continue to promote technical and skill training.

He said the federal government under Pemandu had held open days to promote and get feedback on the NEP and ETP all over Malaysia with Sarawak no exception.