SIPITANG: Sipitang’s strategic location bordering Sarawak, Brunei Darussalam, and Sabah positions it with significant potential to emerge as a key hub for economic and tourism development, according to State Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Isnin Aliasnih.
Speaking at the Swearing-In Ceremony and Presentation of Appointment Letters for Sipitang District Council Members (2025-2027) at Hilton Hotel, Kota Kinabalu, on April 21, he emphasized that the district’s geographic advantage places it on the right track to drive state economic growth.
“Sipitang’s position as a cross-border gateway between Sarawak, Brunei Darussalam, and Sabah makes it a prime candidate to be developed as a focal point for economic and tourism activities,” he stated.
A total of 17 individuals were appointed as Sipitang District Council members during the ceremony. They will be responsible for planning and implementing local development initiatives. Isnin urged the newly-appointed councillors to execute their duties diligently to ensure effective implementation of development plans.
He highlighted Sipitang’s rich cultural heritage, including events like the GATA Festival, alongside its natural beauty and fertile agricultural resources. “The blend of cultural heritage, natural resources, and strategic location positions Sipitang for aggressive development,” he added.
Isnin also addressed regional developments, noting that Indonesia’s planned relocation of its capital to Kalimantan will directly impact border areas like Sipitang, Kalabakan, and Nabawan. He stressed the need for robust preparations in infrastructure, border security, and logistics to accommodate anticipated cross-border economic growth.
“Brunei Darussalam has already built several Immigration, Customs, and Quarantine (ICQ) complexes in preparation for increased cross-border activity. Sabah must follow suit to avoid falling behind in infrastructure readiness,” he said.
He called for collaborative efforts between the government, agencies, communities, and the private sector to realize Sipitang’s potential. “Through unity, we can elevate Sipitang as a strategic economic hub in Sabah,” he concluded.
The event was attended by Sindumin State Assemblyman Datuk Dr. Yusof Yacob, Sipitang Member of Parliament Datuk Matbali Musah, Sipitang District Officer and Council Chairman Abdul Karim A. M. Zahari, Sipitang OCPD Supt Awang Anak Suanda, Sipitang Council Executive Officer Hamsad Abdul Wahid, and representatives from the Ministry of Local Government and Housing. – James Leong
