By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s industrial gross domestic product (GDP) has rebounded in the past two years, said Pakatan Harapan (PH-DAP) Likas candidate Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe.
He said that during his tenure as Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister, he observed Sabah’s industrial GDP was declining yearly, dropping below six per cent when he took office.
“Over the past few years, through collaboration with local industrial and business players, Sabah’s industrial sector has rebounded.
“In 2023, manufacturing GDP grew by 4.4 per cent, the highest in Malaysia. In the first quarter of 2025, industrial investments reached RM7.2 billion, also the highest nationwide.
“This progress reflects our hard work in attracting investment and engaging international partners interested in Sabah,” said Phoong during a campaign at a seafood restaurant in Tanjung Aru.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, he said Malaysia’s investment environment has improved, GDP is rising, and unemployment is falling.
From the first quarter of 2024 to the third quarter, employment increased by 170,000, and unemployment dropped to 5.7 per cent, a post-pandemic low, he added.
“Our team is committed to growing Sabah’s economy, reducing logistics costs, and creating opportunities for local industries to thrive, including manufacturing and tourism.
“Our vision is to develop industries so Sabah’s youth can find jobs locally, without needing to move to West Malaysia or abroad.
“I also want to stress that elections are about choosing representatives who will serve your communities, not just selecting a Chief Minister.
“Your state assembly member must understand and address your everyday concerns. That is the responsibility I commit to fulfilling,” said the Sabah DAP chairman, who is involved in a six-cornered fight for the Likas seat.
He urged the Chinese community in Sabah to unite, saying their votes can ensure that their capable team remains in the State Legislative Assembly to advocate for their interests.
“This election may be chaotic, but choose the candidates who can work effectively and deliver results. Support our team, led by experienced and energetic leaders,” Phoong said.
Meanwhile, Pakatan Harapan (PH-DAP) Luyang candidate Chan Loong Wei who is involved in a five-cornered fight has set a series of goals to continue positive development and address everyday problems in the constituency.
Over the past seven years, infrastructure improvements have been made including better roads, parks, sports facilities, and community spaces.
He said his next focus would be addressing flooding and drainage issues.
If elected, he will allocate a portion of his YB funds to ensure residential infrastructure is aligned with ongoing drainage projects so that waterlogging is effectively managed.
On the Taman Ujana Rimba Tropika issue, Chan said he is aware the park is popular among joggers and outdoor enthusiasts.
“However, the park currently faces issues with parking and poor jogging tracks. We will upgrade facilities, install solar powered lights for early morning exercise, and improve parking so everyone can enjoy safe and healthy recreation,” he said.
Regarding the chronic parking shortages at Queen Elizabeth Hospital I, he said that if elected, he will work closely with the authorities to ensure adequate parking and convenience for everyone, especially doctors, nurses, and patients.
Chan said he will continue to engage with the community to discuss small issues such as street repairs, maintenance, and public facilities.
