By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called on investors and business leaders at the Sabah International Expo (SIE2026) to explore opportunities in Sabah’s Blue Economy.
He said the Blue Economy covers sectors including sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, marine biotechnology, maritime services, coastal and island tourism, renewable energy, logistics, shipbuilding and repair, and other ocean-based industries.
“Our objective is to ensure that these resources are developed responsibly and sustainably, creating economic opportunities while protecting the marine ecosystems that are so important to Sabah.
“We see strong potential in developing higher-value downstream activities from our marine resources, promoting technology and innovation, and increasing the participation of Sabah entrepreneurs and local businesses.
“With the right investments, technologies and partnerships, Sabah can develop a more dynamic and sustainable Blue Economy, creating new industries, generating employment and opening new sources of income for our communities.
“This is an area with considerable potential for regional and international collaboration,” he said in a speech read by Deputy Chief Minister II and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun at the State Government’s Welcome Dinner for SIE2026 at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
Hajiji said the State Government did not want to simply export Sabah’s resources.
“We want to create greater value from those resources here in Sabah. We seek to promote downstream industries, technology transfer, innovation, skills development and stronger participation by local businesses.
“This is how we can build a more diversified, resilient and sustainable economy for Sabah,” he said.
He said Sabah’s strategic location was another advantage for investors.
Located in the heart of Borneo and close to major markets in ASEAN and the wider Asia-Pacific region, Sabah was well positioned to serve as a bridge between markets, he said.
“Our proximity to Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and the Philippines, together with our connections to the wider ASEAN region, gives Sabah an important role to play in strengthening regional trade and investment,” he said.
Within the BIMP-EAGA framework, Sabah could play a greater role as a gateway for trade, investment, tourism and economic cooperation.
He said Sabah aimed to position itself not merely as a destination, but as a regional business hub and gateway to wider markets.
Hajiji said the Sabah Government was committed to creating a more conducive, competitive and business-friendly investment environment.
“Through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development agenda, we are pursuing initiatives to strengthen infrastructure, improve connectivity, develop human capital, attract quality investments and unlock new economic sectors,” he said.
He said the Government needed the private sector as a partner in development.
“We therefore welcome investors, entrepreneurs and businesses that are prepared to come to Sabah, invest in Sabah and build meaningful partnerships with Sabah businesses.
“Together, we can create greater opportunities for the people of Sabah.
“We particularly welcome investments that bring technology and innovation, promote higher-value activities, generate skilled employment and deliver sustainable economic benefits to the State,” he said.
He welcomed SIE2026 participants from more than 15 countries, including Australia, Brunei Darussalam, China, Denmark, Finland, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Poland, Singapore, Thailand, the United Kingdom, the United States, Senegal and Zambia.
“As the Chief Minister of Sabah, I assure all our guests that Sabah is open for business, open to partnerships and open to new ideas.
“We welcome businesses that share our ambition to create sustainable growth and a better future for our people.
“To all our exhibitors, delegates and international participants, I encourage you to look beyond the exhibition booths and experience Sabah for yourselves.
“Meet our people. Visit our industries. Discover our resources and investment opportunities.
“Most importantly, see why Sabah can be your next business destination,” he said.
Masidi (centre), with some of the SIE2026 delegations.
