Increased trade to boost S’kan economy
SANDAKAN: The State Government is committed to improving its trade relations with the Philippines and Indonesia in an effort to revamp the economy of Sandakan.
Deputy Chief Minister cum Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau said the State Government was determined to redevelop Sandakan’s economy by exploring and improving the district’s existing resources and opportunities.
“Among the measures to be taken is to increase trade relations between Sandakan and its neighbouring countries – the Philippines and Indonesia, especially in the industrial, manufacturing, processing and tourism sectors,” said Tangau.
He reckoned that such move would attract more investors and that it would generate more economic opportunities for Sandakan.
In light of this, Tangau said that the State Government would look for more ways on how it can improve the trade relations between Sandakan and the two countries.
Tangau spoke to reporters during his visit to the housing area in Jalan Singapura (near Padang Bandaran Sandakan) with Elopura assemblyman Calvin Chong Ket Kiun on Friday.
He was in Sandakan for a twoday working visit.
“Currently, Sandakan’s economy is generated by its tourism sector, which is famous for its Orang Utan rehabilitation centre at Sepilok as well as its islands.
“Hence, it is vital for the State Government to create more potential in Sandakan’s tourism sector, so that the district can attract more tourists,” said Tangau.
To develop Sandakan’s economy, Tangau said he welcomed suggestions and ideas from all parties on how they can achieve the goal.
Separately, Tangau also said that the State Government together with the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) would be seeking an approach to solve the issues faced by those living in Jalan Singapura.
It is understood that most of the residents there are registered owners that do not own grants; they only own geran kongsi (Master Title).
Tangau said that such a problem would cause difficulties for the registered owners when it comes to payment and other matters in the event the area was to be redeveloped.
He also said that structure of the housing area would have to be restudied to assess its safety features.