Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Yong Teck Lee called for a shift in focus from celebrations to economic development as Sabah enters the Year of the Snake, amid concerns about economic challenges and the coming state election.
With the state election due in October, Yong emphasised that the economy remains the primary concern of ordinary citizens.
“This lunar season is noticeably quieter compared to previous years, indicating that economic recovery has yet to gain momentum,” he said in his Chinese New Year message, Monday.
The former Chief Minister criticised the excessive time and resources government departments spent on celebrations with minimal economic value.
He specifically pointed to City Hall’s frequent involvement in organising various events and activities, urging it and other government bodies to prioritise productive economic initiatives instead.
“Against the backdrop of global uncertainties and challenges facing the Malaysian economy, Sabah must position itself to be more competitive and productive,” Yong said.
He pointed out the importance of exploring new export markets for Sabah’s products to strengthen the State’s economic position.
Extending his advice to Chinese associations, Yong encouraged them to organise activities with greater economic impact, focusing on market access, productivity enhancement and product branding development.
