Kota Kinabalu: Businessman Dato’ Sri Thomas Hah Tiing Siu, whose name has been linked a Kudat land deal controversy has decided to withdraw from his planned investment.
He blamed the decision on polemics by irresponsible parties in a statement that went viral in social media.
“After taking into account the issues and polemics raised by certain parties, with full regret the company has made due consideration and decided to withdraw investment proposals in the development of the agricultural sector in the areas involved,” he said, Saturday.
His statement came in response to allegations of power abuse by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor in social media over the approval of six land applications involving 968.4 hectares in Kudat.
Predecessor Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal was also allegedly linked to the deal, which the latter has since denied.
Thomas said the controversy that was sparked by irresponsible parties had affected the confidence of his fellow investors.
“An official letter to the State Government stating our decision will be submitted later,” he said.
“We are investors who are interested in exploring new business opportunities in Sabah to boost Sabah’s economic growth and create job opportunities for people in the state, especially in rural areas.
“We are in an effort to bring foreign investment in the form of capital and new technology to Sabah which will be managed by a professional management team,” he said.
He said all matters related to the investment application of the project had gone through the process and met all the provisions and regulations set by the relevant authorities.
“The application made by the related companies is in line with the State Government’s agenda to advance the agricultural sector for the sake of food security through proposed animal husbandry and agriculture projects,” he said, adding that the application was referred to the State Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry.
“This purpose is clearly stated in each application.
“The approval given by the State Government contains various conditions and among them if the company does not develop the land as intended, the approval can be cancelled.
“However, after taking into account the issues and polemics raised by certain parties, the company has made due consideration and decided to withdraw investment proposals in the development of the agricultural sector of the areas involved,” he said.
Last Monday (Oct 9), Hajiji refuted allegations and described them as ill-intended, politically motivated and aimed at smearing his name.
He said his office would give full cooperation to any investigation.
