Ministry attracts investors to rural Sabah — Tangau
KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Trade and Industries, headed by former Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau, is looking to improve on the work of the previous government in terms of developing industrialisation in Sabah, especially in rural areas.
Among changes that can be expected include the approach taken to strengthen concerted efforts between agencies at the state and federal levels, as well as to attract more investment to districts around Sabah.
“The ministry is working hard to promote investment opportunities throughout Sabah to foreign as well as local investors, including encouraging the operation of factories on the west coast, namely in Papar, Beaufort and Kuala Penyu.
“Through the Industrial Development and Research Department, we have prepared a facility and economic development activity profile for each district in Sabah, including information on available amenities such as infrastructure, utilities and main economic activity of locals, with the potential to develop resources available in the area.
“Aside from furnishing potential investors with the profile, they are also brought to each district to see for themselves the facilities provided,” said Madius.
He added that attracting foreign investors to areas out of the city is an opportunity to empower the local community, hence the initiatives taken through the Satu Desa Satu Industri (SDSI) programme.
The ministry is cooperating with federal agencies such as MARDI, SIRIM and MATRADE to conduct courses and training so local entrepreneurs will be able to produce products with internationally competitive quality, he said.
“They are also given exposure by participating in expos at the State, national and international levels.
“These efforts will not only empower small business owners to improve their quality of life, but also that of their community.
“In addition, the ministry will continue to monitor any potential for industrial developments in various districts to attract investors,” he said.
To improve on the SDSI programme from the initiatives of the previous government, Madius said some changes to be expected include grant matching with the federal government, identifying companies for technology audit and ways to upscale, encouraging more thorough product research and pushing for standardisation and certification.