Sarawak Metro, IBRACO Sign First KUTS Station Naming Rights Partnership

KUCHING, Aug 1, 2026: Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd (Sarawak Metro) marked a major milestone in the development of the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) with the signing of its first-ever Station Naming Rights Agreement.

Under the partnership, the SM07 Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) station at The NorthBank, Stutong, will officially be known as The NorthBank IBRACO, making IBRACO Berhad the inaugural corporate partner under Sarawak Metro's Station Naming Rights Programme.

The agreement exchange ceremony was witnessed by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Abang Openg, while Sarawak Metro Chief Executive Officer Ts. Mazli Mustaffa and IBRACO Berhad Group Managing Director Datuk Chew Chiaw Han signed on behalf of their respective organisations.

Speaking at the ceremony, Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin described the partnership as another significant milestone in the KUTS journey, saying the project has progressed beyond infrastructure development into a comprehensive and sustainable public transportation ecosystem.

"The Government of Sarawak has made a significant investment in KUTS because we believe public transportation is essential to improving connectivity, supporting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for our people," he said.

Lee stressed that while building a modern transport system is important, ensuring its long-term financial sustainability is equally critical.

"A modern public transportation system cannot rely solely on passenger fares. Strategic commercial partnerships such as transit-oriented development, station naming rights, advertising and retail opportunities help diversify revenue sources while allowing the organisation to continuously improve its services."

He commended Sarawak Metro for introducing the Station Naming Rights Programme, describing it as a forward-thinking initiative that adopts international best practices while creating innovative non-fare revenue streams to support the long-term sustainability of the KUTS network.

Lee also congratulated IBRACO Berhad for becoming the programme's first strategic partner.

"Your confidence in KUTS demonstrates the private sector's belief in the long-term potential of Sarawak's public transportation system. I hope today's signing will encourage more corporations, institutions and local businesses to collaborate with Sarawak Metro as we continue building a transportation ecosystem that is innovative, commercially sustainable and beneficial to the people of Sarawak."

The Station Naming Rights Programme allows organisations to integrate their corporate or brand names with selected ART stations while retaining each station's geographical identity. The initiative is designed to generate sustainable non-fare revenue while providing long-term branding opportunities for participating organisations.

Partners will benefit from visibility through station signage, wayfinding systems, selected official communications and promotional materials, while also having opportunities to collaborate with Sarawak Metro on marketing campaigns and community engagement initiatives.

The programme is particularly suited for organisations with major developments located near ART stations, including township developments, universities, hospitals, convention centres and corporate headquarters.

The KUTS project, implemented by Sarawak Metro, is the state's flagship public transportation initiative and will introduce zero-emission hydrogen-powered Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) vehicles operating on dedicated trackless lanes.

Phase One comprises three routes: the Blue Line from Rembus in Kota Samarahan to Hikmah Exchange, the Red Line from Kuching Sentral to Pending, and the Green Line from Pending to Damai. The ART system will be supported by a network of hydrogen-powered feeder buses, providing seamless first-mile and last-mile connectivity while advancing Sarawak's hydrogen economy and decarbonisation agenda.