Kota Kinabalu: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said Sabah has ample opportunities for investors in green technology and high-tech agriculture, as well as mixed developments.
“We are also keen for Chinese investors to explore opportunities in the State’s Blue Economy,” he said, at the 75th anniversary reception of the founding of the People’s Republic of China at Magellan Sutera, Tuesday.
“Similarly, the energy sector presents significant opportunities, and while oil and gas remain important revenue streams for Sabah, we welcome investors to also explore solar and storage technologies, hydro, geothermal, as well as carbon market opportunities,” he said.
Hajiji said he looked forward to more synergy in all areas of cooperation between Sabah and China and would work closely with the Chinese Consulate General in Kota Kinabalu to enhance and continue this cooperation.
The State Government is also pleased that Sabah remains a sought-after destination for Chinese visitors for leisure and business.
China was also Sabah’s largest source of foreign tourists, with 262,070 out of 706,383 international arrivals from January to July this year.
The surge was also due to the mutual visa exemption between Malaysia and China announced last December.
China’s visitor arrivals were recorded at 26,054 of the 424,052 international arrivals for the same period last year.
Hajiji said since tourism is a critical driver of Sabah’s economy, the State Government would continue to enhance its business environment and upgrade tourism facilities to attract more investors and tourists to the State.
Four months ago on May 31, Malaysia and China celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
“Our two nations have always been good friends and enjoyed cordial relations.
“China is the largest trading partner for both Malaysia and Sabah. This has contributed to much cooperation across various sectors, bringing tangible benefits to our two nations and the people on both sides.
“Last year, the leaders of Malaysia and China reached an important consensus on jointly building the Malaysia-China community with a shared future.
“This signalled a new chapter in our bilateral relations, adding a strong impetus on enhanced Malaysia-China and Sabah-China relations.
“Similarly, the King of Malaysia’s recent four-day visit to China was a significant step in strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations,” he said.
