Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor urges Sabah's public and private sectors to leverage economic ties with China and Asean for regional collaboration and development.
He said China is Sabah's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at RM10.7 billion in 2023.
Hajiji said this at the Malaysia-China Summit 2024: Networking Engagement Series in Sabah at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort , here, Wednesday.
His speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Nizam Abu
Bakar Titingan.
Sabah's total trade was valued at RM41.463 billion, with palm oil as the main export.
Chinese investments in Sabah's manufacturing sector totaled RM3.07 billion, creating over 3,000 jobs.
The State seeks further investments in green technology, agriculture, and mixed developments. Sabah also promotes its Blue Economy concept and welcomes cooperation in renewable energy.
Tourism from China is significant, with Chinese visitors comprising the largest group of international arrivals in early 2024.