Kota Kinabalu: The digital economy is no longer optional for Sabah’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the State’s economy, said Assistant Minister of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Transport Datuk Jonnybone J. Kurum.
He said Sabah’s ability to adapt, compete, and grow in an increasingly digital environment will determine its long-term economic resilience.
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This, he said, aligns closely with the State Government’s broad socio-economic and industrial development agenda, particularly in strengthening SME participation in modern and high-value sectors, including the digital economy.
“By investing in digital literacy, infrastructure, and market access, we are preparing our entrepreneurs not just for current challenges, but for future opportunities in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.
“The journey towards a robust digital economy requires collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility.
“With strong leadership from institutions like Yayasan Bumiputra Sabah (YBS), committed industry partners and the determination of our entrepreneurs, I am confident that Sabah’s SMEs will continue to grow, adapt and compete — locally, nationally and globally,” he said in his speech at the launch of the E-Commerce Hub Training Programme Series 1/2026 at Wisma Tun Fuad here on Thursday.
The programme brings together 200 SME participants from Kota Kinabalu, Tuaran, Penampang, and Papar and is organised by YBS, with participants being equipped with practical digital skills, e-commerce tools, and exposure to online markets.
Jonnybone also said he was pleased to note YBS’ commitment to expanding the initiative beyond Kota Kinabalu, with plans to roll out similar programmes in Tawau, Sandakan, and other strategic locations across Sabah to ensure no entrepreneur is excluded due to geography.
Commenting on scams, he said these issues are discussed with strategic partners to assess the strength of their security systems.
“While security levels are very high, scams cannot be prevented 100 percent. What matters most is awareness. Sometimes people are influenced, and suddenly their money disappears.
“Users are always reminded not to click on unrelated apps, not to enter suspicious portals, and not to respond to messages that are not meant for them, as these are simply bait to lure victims and drain their money.
“Scammers are not only operating in Malaysia — some even pose as lawyers or doctors. I urge all users to be more cautious,” he said.
Also present were Yayasan Bumiputra Sabah chairman Datuk John Ambrose and its board of trustees comprising Datuk Faisyal Yusof Hamdain Diego, Datuk Seri Dr Adalbert Kinson, Datuk Sri Liaw Tze Shung @ Richard, and Anthea James Jipanus.
