Published on: Sunday, November 22, 2009 |
Kota Kinabalu: The Federation of Sabah Manufacturers (FSM) recognises Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman as the Father of Sabah's Development and Progress.
The recognition was fitting because of the Chief Minister's far-sightedness in bringing development and progress to the State, said its President, Datuk Wong Ken Thau.
The Chief Minister had brought tremendous development to Sabah, said Wong in his speech at the FSM's 26th Annual Dinner at Ocean Seafood Village Restaurant, here, Friday.
Supporting the recognition and concurring with FSM were the Federation of Sabah Chinese Associations President, Datuk Sari Nuar, and Penampang Chinese Chamber of Commerce President, Datuk Kenneth Yen.
Meanwhile, FSM would be forming a state logistics council with the aim to bring down the cost of conducting business in Sabah and spur industrial growth.
It would study the logistics of operating businesses in Sabah through a more focused and holistic manner by firstly identifying gaps that prevent efficiency and eventually seeking solution to close such gaps, he said.
He said the council would comprise captains of industries, trade associations and relevant government ministries and departments.
"The setting up of the council aims to complement the Government's effort in helping Sabah bring down the cost of doing business and to spur industrial growth," he said.
Wong said one of FSM's main agendas was to address the high cost of conducting business in Sabah, which had become an issue plaguing the industry for decades.
High shipping charges was a contributor to the high cost of production in the State and, therefore, Sabah welcomed the announcement by the Transport Ministry over the partial liberalisation of shipping routes for container cargoes between the peninsula and East Malaysia, he said.
Wong said FSM believed the positive impact of the move that took effect on June 3 this year would be felt in the long run.
FSM also urged the Government to further improve and upgrade the Sepanggar Bay Container Port in order to meet the criteria for hub seaport status.
Wong said with more economic activities, it meant Sabah would have more opportunities for its products to be marketed at a competitive price both locally and internationally.
