KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is committed to transparency, good governance and anti-corruption efforts including those recognised by international standards, says Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
The Chief Minister said this will create a conducive environment for business and investment.
"Our adherence to international best practices, including those outlined by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscores our dedication to ethical governance and accountability.
"By upholding principles of transparency and integrity, Sabah strengthens investor confidence and promotes long-term sustainable development," he said at the Environment, Social, Corporate Governance (ESG) Initiatives Awareness Forum here on Tuesday (May 7).
His speech was delivered by state Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
Commending Invest Sabah Berhad, ESG Sabah Chapter and Universiti Malaysia Sabah for successfully co-hosting the ESG Awareness Forum, Hajiji said Sabah stands at a pivotal moment in its development journey, where the adoption of ESG principles is not only essential but imperative.
"It is the state government’s commitment to embrace ESG, not only to enhance our environmental stewardship but also strengthen our social fabric and governance structures, paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous future," he said.
Countries around the world, he added, have recognised the transformative power of ESG and have integrated these principles into their policymaking and business practices.
"I am happy to share that in line with our commitment to ecosystem restoration, Sabah has undertaken extensive reforestation programmes, planting over two million trees across degraded landscapes.
"These efforts not only enhance biodiversity but also contribute to carbon sequestration, mitigating the impacts of climate change on a global scale.
“Hence, by integrating social and environmental considerations, Sabah's reforestation initiatives exemplify the holistic approach advocated by ESG principles," the Chief Minister said.
Hajiji also said Sabah's Industrial Tree Plantation or ITP is an innovative public-private partnership initiated by the state Forestry Department to reduce and relieve pressure on tropical timber and forest.
"This partnership between the state government and the timber industry is not only an economic game-changer but crucial for conservation and sustainability,” he said.
In 2024, renewable energy accounted for over 50% of Sabah's total energy production, marking a significant milestone in the state’s journey towards energy sustainability and independence, he said.
