KOTA KINABALU: The launching of the Borneo International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation (Bicam) on Thursday (July 20) will make Sabah a regional alternative dispute resolution hub, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said this move is welcomed by the state government, adding that the centre can expect relevant ministries and agencies to be supportive.
“I commend the efforts of Bicam chairman Tan Sri David Wong, who has been instrumental in driving the centre's establishment,” said Hajiji.
"Its establishment signifies our commitment to fostering a conducive environment for resolving commercial disputes efficiently and cost-effectively," he added.
Hajiji’s speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who represented him, at the launching ceremony at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here.
Hajiji added that training, education, and professional development programmes held by Bicam will equip legal professionals with the necessary tools to excel in alternative dispute resolution.
He said this will further reinforce Sabah and Sarawak as leading destinations for legal services in the region.
He added that the state government will support Bicam's efforts through the ministries, departments and government-linked companies (GLCs).
"By involving local and international arbitrators and mediators, we can build a diverse and skilled panel of experts, further enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of the centre,” said Hajiji.
He added that the council overseeing Bicam will be made up of the heads of professional bodies across the region, which will ensure a shared vision and effective governance for the its operations,
Hajiji urged Bicam to emulate the achievements of renowned institutions such as the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) and the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC), which have attracted substantial foreign direct investment (FDI).
"With the existence of Bicam, Sabah anticipates a spill-over effect where the development of this centre will stimulate growth in various industries,” said Hajiji.
