Kota Kinabalu: Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick wants Sabah Economic Development Corporation (Sedco) and its subsidiaries to deliver stronger and more consistent dividend contributions to the State Government.
He said Sedco remains a key driver of entrepreneurship and investment in Sabah.
“Subsidiaries under Sedco are mandated to deliver results, and one of the government’s main expectations is dividend returns,” he said.
Ewon, who is also State Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transportation Minister, said dividends are important to support Sabah’s development needs, including education, poverty eradication and public wellbeing.
He spoke to reporters after his first visit and briefing at Wisma Sedco in here, Thursday.
Ewon also called for better optimisation of state–federal coordination platforms, especially the Entrepreneur Development Coordination Committee.
He said this is necessary to ensure Sabah’s development demands receive proper attention in federal budget planning.
Ewon said his main focus from 2027 is to help more Sabahans achieve stable income through entrepreneurship and a more active job market.
“I do not want Sabah to continue carrying the label of having the poorest districts,” he said.
He said entrepreneurship development will open more opportunities for youths, graduates and job seekers.
Ewon believes Sabah can raise household income within five years if all plans are carried out effectively.
He said the State Budget to be tabled on Dec 12 is expected to retain its existing structure as it was prepared before the new Cabinet.
However, he said a new ministry agenda will be introduced from 2027, requiring larger budget support.
Ewon said agencies such as Sedco, Kta Kinabalu Industrial Park, POIC and Sabah Oil and Gas Development Corporation must show strong performance to justify larger future allocations.
He also wants stronger coordination with the Federal Government to strengthen Sabah’s transport portfolio.
Also present were Assistant Minister Datuk Jonnybone Kurum, Sedco Group General Manager Datuk James Wong, ministry officials and Sedco management.
