KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has reinforced its commitment to making it easier for investors to pump money into the state.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said, at the same time, the government is determined to push the investment momentum from China as they ensure the state remains an attractive destination for investments.
Hajiji said Sabah's economic ties with China were driven by strong trade, investment, and collaborative projects across sectors.
"For the manufacturing sector, our state has received RM3.07bil in investments from China to date, which have created 3,086 jobs,” he said, during the opening of the Seventh Global Longchuan Association Conference here on Sunday (Sept 8).
These investments, he said, involved solar glass manufacturing, silica and processing, food manufacturing, rubber products, wood-based products, and plastic products.
"I have stressed from the onset that we are investor-friendly, and we will ease all hurdles to facilitate investments,” Hajiji said.
In this respect, he said, Sabah also looks forward to increased cooperation with China in green energy, manufacturing, high-technology agriculture, and smart city construction, among other areas, to promote mutual benefits and win-win partnerships.
"The cooperation between Malaysia and China has advanced significantly, with both countries continuously working together to promote mutual interests, and I am confident that this partnership will continue to flourish," he added.
State Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe delivered his speech at the event, the first to be hosted outside of China.
Hajiji said the energy sector presents significant opportunities, and while oil and gas remain important revenue streams for Sabah, the state welcomes investors to also explore the Blue Economy, solar and storage technologies, hydro, geothermal and carbon market opportunities.
"I am pleased to know that we have participants of various backgrounds, including entrepreneurs, with us here today.
“We encourage you to learn more about Sabah and its investment potential and welcome all of you to invest here," he said.
The Chief Minister said in addition to strong bilateral relations, the other aspect worth mentioning was the strong family ties the Longchuan clan has in common with Sabah.
"There is a very large Longchuan community here in Sabah with over 100,000 people of Longchuan origin.
“Many of you have relatives here too, and I am sure that will make your visit to Sabah so much more meaningful,” Hajiji said.
