Kota Kinabalu: The Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Ministry (Mindet) will focus on developing three new industrial parks in Sabah this year.
Deputy Chief Minister III cum Mindet Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick, said the projects involve the Kudat Blue Economy Industrial Park, Kota Belud Industrial Park and Beaufort Industrial Park.
He said the developments form part of the State Government’s strategy to strengthen the industrial sector, expand investment areas and stimulate more balanced and inclusive economic growth.
“The manufacturing sector is an important driver of Sabah’s economic growth and forms the foundation for creating more job opportunities and business activities.
“The ministry will remain committed to attracting high-impact investments and facilitating investment matters in an integrated manner with relevant agencies to ensure Sabah remains competitive as an investment destination,” he said.
He said this during his ministry’s winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly.
Ewon said for the Kudat Blue Economy Industrial Park, the development master plan is being prepared by Sabah Economic Development Corporation (Sedco).
He said the Kota Belud Industrial Park under KKIP Sdn Bhd already has an approved master plan, with the next phase focusing on infrastructure and utility development.
“For the Beaufort Industrial Park, land suitability studies have been completed and the next process involves land acquisition as well as preparation of the master plan,” he said.
At the same time, Ewon said Mindet is also strengthening entrepreneurship development by expanding market access for local products and building strategic cooperation with supermarkets within and outside Sabah.
He said the ministry will also implement courses with Malaysia Intellectual Property Corporation (MyIPO), to improve awareness and compliance on intellectual property protection among entrepreneurs.
Participation in international trade expos in several countries will also continue to help expand access to global markets.
“The value of Sabah’s manufacturing product exports increased to RM8.78 billion in 2025 compared with RM8.31 billion in 2024, reflecting the strong potential of local entrepreneurs in the global market,” he said.
To support local products, Ewon said the Buy Sabah Made campaign will continue through SME entrepreneur carnivals in several districts, including Tenom, Tawau and Kuala Penyu this year.
He said the SME-UP 2026 2.0 outreach programme will also be implemented statewide to widen entrepreneur participation, with the application deadline for assistance extended until May 16.
Meanwhile, in the transport sector, he said the ministry will begin the Sabah Sustainable Transport Master Plan (SSTMP) study this year as a long-term framework to develop a more efficient, integrated and sustainable transport system.
“This initiative is expected to support the State’s economic growth, improve supply chain efficiency and strengthen inter-regional connectivity,” he said.
