SANDAKAN: Sabah Mineral Management Sdn Bhd (SMM) welcomed the official opening of the SGS Mineral Sample Preparation Facility, here, the first such in Sabah.
It was officiated by Sabah Natural Resources Office Secretary Datuk Sernam Singh on Jan. 14, witnessed by SMM Chief Executive Officer Natasha Sim.
Advertisement
SMM in a statement, Friday, said the facility strengthens Sabah’s mineral and mining ecosystem by enhancing the State’s technical foundations for mineral exploration and analysis.
SGS (M) Sdn Bhd, established in 1971, operates as part of SGS, a leading Swiss multinational specialising in inspection, testing and certification, with more than four decades of technical expertise across the mining value chain.
SMM noted that the facility represents a significant step towards improving data accuracy, traceability and scientific reliability in mineral-related activities in Sabah.
Localised sample preparation is expected to provide faster turnaround times, reduce logistical challenges and ensure verified, accredited and internationally recognised outcomes throughout exploration and operational workflows.
Looking ahead, SGS has outlined plans for Phase Two and Phase Three developments, which would progressively expand its capabilities beyond sample preparation, subject to regulatory approvals and market demand.
SGS (M) Managing Director Ben Lv said these future phases would strengthen Sabah’s position by enabling more comprehensive in-state testing and analytical capabilities that support industry growth and regulatory excellence.
SMM said the development aligns with the State’s broader objective of ensuring mineral development remains responsible, well-regulated and grounded in sound scientific practices.
SMM also described the facility as a timely addition to Sabah’s mineral development landscape and welcomed the continued commitment of SGS (Malaysia) in investing in Sabah, supporting technical advancement and contributing to the State’s goal of transparent, responsible and well-governed mineral resource management.
