Kota Kinabalu: Sabah’s approach to explore the Blue Economy as a new source of income must be supported by all, said Kawang Assemblyman Datuk Ghulam Haidar Khan Bahadar.
He said the Blue Economy, estimated to be worth billions of ringgit, has high potential to be developed in the State.
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“Being surrounded by ocean within the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA), as well as Malaysia’s status as a maritime nation, Sabah is highly suited for the tapping of marine resources.
“The development of the Blue Economy can spur economic growth, create job opportunities and improve the people’s living standards,” he said when debating the 2024 State Budget.
Ghulam said the coastal area from Kawang to Lok Kawi and Kinarut can be the base for the downstream industry of the Blue Economy.
“Taking into account the marine and maritime treasures in Sabah’s inland waters, the exploration of this Blue Economy is a major added value for the State.
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“This can be realised with cooperation of foreign investors who have expertise in the field” he said.
Ghulam said to develop the economy of rural communities, he fully supports the Government’s efforts through the Ministry of Rural Development to empower rural entrepreneurs and promote their local products.
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He said the “One District One Product” programme should be given priority in order to diversify resources and help ensure long-term food security.
Ghulam also welcomed the implementation of the Kogopon water plant project which is currently under construction, to supply water needs to users around the Papar district, including his constituency.