Sarawak launches EXPRT module to streamline expatriate employment pass applications

It follows the success of SANSOLS, a system managing Non-Resident Employees, which has already reduced processing times by 70%, shortening approval periods from 197 to 61 days.

Sarawak has taken another step forward in its digital transformation journey with the launch of the Expatriate Platform for Recruitment & Talent (EXPRT) module, a new online system aimed at simplifying the process of applying for employment passes for expatriates.

Unveiled during the Industry Update Programme at Hilton Hotel Kuching, the initiative is said to reflect the state’s push toward digital governance, improved service efficiency, and sustainable economic growth under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.

Datuk Gerawat Gala, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) announced on his Facebook that the event had more than 180 industry representatives, alongside senior officials including YBhg. Datu Buckland Bangik, Deputy State Secretary (Administration), YBrs. Tn. Richard Lon, Director ILMU, YBrs. Tn. Abang Mat Noor, Sr. Officer, JIMS, YBrs. Dr Belinda, Sr. Officer, PERKESO, and YBrs. Tn. Muhammad Syafiq, Officer Sarawak Attorney General.

The EXPRT Module forms part of the continued development of the Advanced Labour & Immigration Aligned Network for Compliance (ALIANCE) digital ecosystem, which was officially launched earlier this year. It follows the success of SANSOLS, a system managing Non-Resident Employees, which has already reduced processing times by 70%, shortening approval periods from 197 to 61 days while improving transparency through integration with MyIMMs.

Building on this momentum, the EXPRT Module focuses on expatriate recruitment, seeking to enable faster, more transparent, and digitally streamlined employment pass applications. New applications are expected to go live on 1 November 2025, with renewal features to follow in subsequent phases.

Datuk Gerawat highlighted that this engagement forms part of Sarawak’s continuous effort to innovate and refine public service delivery, strengthening trust between the government and industry. He also expressed appreciation to Immigration & Labour Management Unit (ILMU), the Foreign Workers Transformation Approach (FWTA) team, implementing agencies, and private sector partners for their collaboration in driving the initiative.

Lead image / Datuk Gerawat Gala Facebook