KUALA LUMPUR, 13 January : The proposed Kenyalang Smart City (KSC) is emerging as a strategic pillar in Sarawak’s push to reposition itself as a regional hub for education, healthcare and technology, anchored by a long-term collaboration with China’s elite Fudan University.
The development is expected to address structural gaps in Sarawak’s healthcare system and talent pipeline, while accelerating the state’s transition towards a knowledge-based economy.
Imasa Dinasti’s Director of Planning and Development, Hairul Nizar bin Tamaddun, said the partnership was designed to deliver long-term capacity building rather than short-term gains, with education and human capital development at its core.
A key component of the collaboration is the proposed establishment of a Fudan Medical School within the KSC development, aimed at easing Sarawak’s shortage of specialist doctors and strengthening the foundations for medical tourism.
“Sarawak faces a clear deficit in medical specialists and supporting healthcare professionals. This initiative is intended to build sustainable local capacity, not just to meet current demand but future needs,” he said.
Hairul Nizar was speaking to TVS after accompanying a Fudan University delegation during an official visit in Kuala Lumpur.
He said the partnership extended beyond medicine, encompassing disciplines such as engineering, business, social sciences and advanced technologies, forming an integrated education and research ecosystem aligned with international standards.
According to him, the collaboration is structured as an open-ended, long-term engagement, focusing on research and development, knowledge sharing and technology transfer, with spillover benefits for both Sarawak and Malaysia.
“In the longer term, Sarawak has the potential to position itself as a complementary education and healthcare hub within ASEAN, strengthening rather than competing with existing centres in Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.
He added that the development could stimulate broader economic growth through improved infrastructure, enhanced air connectivity and increased investor participation across high-value sectors.
The KSC project, he said, is aligned with the Sarawak government’s development agenda and continues to receive policy support, with expectations of strong multiplier effects across the state economy.
If successfully executed, the initiative could mark a structural shift in Sarawak’s development trajectory, placing education, healthcare and innovation at the centre of its long-term growth strategy.
Fudan University delegation posing for a group photo with Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd’s staff in Kuala Lumpur during their official visit on Tuesday.
Fudan University students visiting Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd Kuala Lumpur office-bridging cultures, sharing knowledge, and building global connections.
Imasa Dinasti’s Director of Planning and Development, Hairul Nizar bin Tamaddun (left) briefing the delegations on the company’s vision and latest project development.
Thumbs-up for friendship, learning and cross-border connections.
Fudan University delegates on an insightful tour and briefing at Imasa Dinasti Sdn Bhd Kuala Lumpur – fostering knowledge exchange and future collaboration.