Sabah should tap into immigrant labour force
KOTA KINABALU: The United Nations proposal that Sabah tap into the potential of immigrants as a source of labour is something that should be given due consideration.
Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe pointed out that the idea has potential as Sabah is still short of labour in certain sectors.
Speaking to the media at a Chinese New Year luncheon he hosted, Phoong said, “I think this should be considered seriously as industrialisation needs workforce, Sabah really can tap into the possibility. Look at the plantation sector where the worker shortage issue is still serious.”
Phoong said that the dependency on foreign workers could be reduced if the state is able to tap into the available sources it currently has.
“You need more workforce, when Kibing and SK Nexillis came to set up their mega factories in Sabah, we had difficulty getting the workforce for them,” he said.
“This issue can be very sensitive, I know the gravity of this situation and I think Sabahans have to consider the suggestion from the United Nations, as what the international observers are saying makes sense.
“The government as a whole including the opposition, should be bipartisan in the issue and create a way forward. It should be resolved and consensus is needed because the gravity of the issue is too high. This issue has been politicised every time,” he stressed.
According to Phoong, Sabah is quite unique as its population as a whole including the non-citizens, is very young, with more than 50 per cent below 40 years old.
Now that industrialization is set to take off, high-skilled and mid-skilled jobs will be created which would offer higher pay to the people so that young people can see the importance of education and training for a better life,” he said.
Earlier when addressing those who attended the luncheon, Phoong said it is a heartfelt gesture to express the ministry’s appreciation for the dedication, commitment and hard work of their media friends.
“As we usher in the Year of the Dragon, we recognize the invaluable role played by the media in fostering communication, transparency, and understanding within our community.
“Over the past five years, through your relentless efforts, media partners have consistently supported our growth, especially in numerous federal, state and by-elections.
“We are confident that with the current political stability, we will not witness any elections in the near future,” the Luyang assemblyman said.
During the luncheon, Phoong engaged in meaningful discussions, exchanged ideas, and strengthened partnership with the media fraternity.
“As Sabah embarks on its industrialisation journey, 2024 marks a significant turning point in industrial development, with over 10 billion invested in the first nine months alone. Notably, the completion and full operational status of the RM3 billion Kibing project in the first quarter of 2024, alongside the successful first shipment and imminent full operation of SK, highlight our progress.
“With an increase in export value and the creation of over 2000 high-skilled jobs, these investments underscore my ministry’s commitment to propelling Sabah towards a progressive future,” he said.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Sabah, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our media friends for their unwavering support and unwavering commitment. Your dedication to excellence inspires us to continue striving for greater achievements and to build a brighter future for Sabah.
“As we embark on this new year, let us reaffirm our commitment to working hand in hand, forging stronger bonds, and achieving greater success together. Wishing everyone a prosperous and joyous Chinese New Year filled with abundance, happiness, and prosperity,” he said.