KOTA KINABALU: A recently concluded business summit has solidified mutual trust and commitments to accelerate economic development through collaborative ventures between Sabah and China.
“By effectively articulating Sabah’s and China’s unique perspectives while actively listening to one another, we can strengthen the foundation of our cooperation,” said George Wong Hshueh Cheng, director of state-owned Invest Sabah Bhd, highlighting the importance of mutual understanding.
Hosted by the Sabah government and organised by the state Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Ministry, the summit brought together high-level delegations, including representatives from Chinese provincial and municipal governments, state-owned enterprises (SOEs), private corporations, business associations, and chambers of commerce.
This event marked a significant milestone in Sabah-China economic collaboration, infusing new energy into regional growth and fostering a shared vision for prosperity.
Wong highlighted Invest Sabah’s dual role as both a promoter of Sabah’s investment opportunities and a facilitator of seamless partnerships.
“From project agreements to oversight and conflict resolution, we are dedicated to addressing investor concerns and delivering fruitful outcomes for both local and foreign stakeholders,” he said in a statement on Monday (Nov 25).
He also stressed Invest Sabah’s commitment to supporting stakeholders, resolving challenges, and ensuring the successful implementation of projects.
The summit explored high-potential areas for collaboration, including infrastructure development, natural resources and industrial optimisation, manufacturing and supply chain enhancement, agriculture and higher education, renewable energy and tourism, and digital and marine economies.
Tailored investment incentives were introduced to strengthen practical and impactful partnerships, aimed at supporting social and economic growth for both sides.
Wong also highlighted Sabah’s pivotal position as a gateway connecting China with Asean nations.
“With modern seaports, international airports, and state-supported industrial parks like Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP), Sipitang Oil and Gas Industrial Park (SOGIP), and Lahad Datu Palm Oil Industrial Cluster (POIC), Sabah provides robust infrastructure for international investors,” he said.
Through the Belt and Road Initiative, Sabah is advancing cooperation in logistics, trade, technology transfer, and cultural exchanges.
“These efforts not only enhance Sabah’s competitiveness but also solidify its critical role within the global economic framework,” he added.
The summit addressed Sabah’s challenges in technology and resource management, focusing on leveraging advanced Chinese technologies to boost local industrial capabilities.
“Optimising supply chains and industrial efficiency will position Sabah as a regional hub for innovation and transformation,” Wong said.
He noted that Chinese SOEs and private corporations had expressed strong confidence in Sabah’s investment potential, citing its abundant natural resources, strategic location, transparent policies, and investor-friendly environment.
Looking forward, Invest Sabah aims to strengthen bilateral communication to ensure transparency and sustainability in key projects, reactivate pending government-to-government agreements, and deepen ties with Chinese enterprises to build an integrated supply chain ecosystem.
“The success of this summit marks a historic milestone in Sabah-China economic relations.
“The Sabah government and ISB remain committed to delivering on the summit’s outcomes, fostering cooperation, and building a vibrant economic ecosystem for the region,” Wong said.
