By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s economy will continue to grow despite the global slowdown caused by conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
This is due to the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 Development Plan, which is in place for the next five years.
“After the 17th State Election in November last year, the State Government is determined to intensify the development agenda, aligning with the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) from 2026 to 2030,” said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said the ongoing conflicts have also affected global oil supplies.
“This situation has triggered a global energy crisis, which is also being felt in this country. I urge the people to practise prudence in their daily commuting,” he said at the Investiture Ceremony held in conjunction with the 75th Official Birthday Celebration of the Head of State Tun Musa Aman at Istana Seri Kinabalu.
Also in attendance were Toh Puan Faridah Tussin and Datin Seri Panglima Datuk Hajah Juliah Salag.
He also reminded the public to exercise prudence in water usage following the ongoing hot spell, which could lead to the El Niño phenomenon.
“In this regard, avoid open burning and reduce outdoor activities,” he said.
On the state’s economic performance, Hajiji said the State Government has begun exploring the potential of the Blue Economy as a key strategic driver under SMJ 2.0, leveraging Sabah’s maritime and biodiversity advantages.
“It encompasses the development of marine biotechnology, smart fisheries, modern mariculture, logistics and sustainable tourism, as well as the utilisation of rivers as economic lifelines for rural areas,” he said.
The initiative also includes the protection of coastal areas, mangroves and coral reefs, as well as the development of blue carbon for higher value-added economic growth.
“The exploration of the Blue Economy, particularly in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, is expected to generate marine-based revenue of up to RM3.25 billion annually,” he said.
He said close cooperation between the State and Federal Governments will be strengthened to ensure development programmes are implemented efficiently.
“Development projects, especially priority ones, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, security and welfare, must be completed as scheduled,” he said.
In conjunction with the Governor’s birthday celebration, Hajiji also called on state leaders, including civil servants and the private sector, to strengthen their resolve and commitment in driving Sabah’s progress.
“I call on all state leaders to continue rendering their service for the prosperity of the state and the well-being of the people,” he said.
Musa (third right), and Faridah (second right), with Hajiji and his wife, Juliah (right), at the Investiture Ceremony.
