Kota Kinabalu: Indonesia strengthened its economic collaboration with Sabah through the country’s participation in the Big Sabah Sale (BSS) 2025, the State’s largest consumer fair held from Oct 31 to Nov 2 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) in here.
The Indonesian Pavilion, organised by the Kota Kinabalu (KK) Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in partnership with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), featured 13 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from various provinces, including East Java, South Kalimantan, North Kalimantan, and Bali, as well as five independent entrepreneurs.
Their products from processed food and textiles to handicrafts and herbal health supplements drew strong interest from visitors and potential distributors in Sabah.
“Indonesia’s participation in the Big Sabah Sale is not only about promoting products but also about strengthening economic cooperation between Indonesia and Sabah,” said the KK Indonesian Consul General.
He commended the creativity and innovation of Indonesian MSMEs in expanding their export reach in the region.
The event, opened by State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun and closed by Kota Kinabalu Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah, saw participation from 14 countries and more than 650 booths, drawing tens of thousands of visitors.
During the three-day event, South Kalimantan Kadin and the Sabah Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote trade, investment and business information exchange.
The North Kalimantan Aspindo and Sabah Handicraft Association also explored collaboration to empower artisans in border areas and boost creative industry development.
According to KJRI, several Sabah importers and distributors have expressed interest in Indonesian products and are exploring long-term partnerships, including joint training and distribution networks.
“KJRI Kota Kinabalu will continue to facilitate these collaborations to help more Indonesian MSMEs become export-ready and competitive in regional markets,” the Consul General said.
Indonesia’s strong showing at BSS 2025 was part of its broader economic diplomacy to promote MSMEs and deepen trade, social and cultural ties between Indonesia and Sabah, long connected through geography, heritage and commerce.
