Kota Kinabalu: The State Government’s decision to appoint Datuk Ar. James Wong as Sabah Economic Development Corporation (Sedco) new Group General Manager (GGM) is a timely reform move for the advancement of both the institution and the State.
Expressing full support for the move, Likas Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) Division Chief Haji Mohammad Bahrin Abd Karim said it is time for Sabah to move out of its comfort zone to allow space for more inclusive and competitive change.
“This appointment symbolises the openness and maturity of the State administration under the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, in recognising the potential of all Sabahans, regardless of race or background.
“It is also in line with the spirit of Malaysia Madani and Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan aspirations, which emphasises diversity as a strength,” he said in a statement, Friday.
He also stressed that it is time for State Statutory Bodies and Government-Linked Companies (GLCs) such as Sedco to be empowered so that they are able to compete healthily with other private companies.
“We can no longer rely entirely on government assistance. Sedco must be able to stand on its own and lead in the State’s economic development sector,” he asserted.
Mohammad Bahrin said with the support of Sedco’s experienced staff, James would be able to steer the organisation towards a more progressive and sustainable direction, ultimately restoring the glory days of Sedco from the past.
“James is not working alone, he will collaborate with all levels of Sedco’s workforce, regardless of race or religion, for the greater good and overall progress of Sabah.”
He is confident that this appointment will mark a new chapter in efforts to strengthen the State’s economy through a more inclusive and performance-driven leadership reform.
Mohammad Bahrin is also confident that Sedco would remain committed to implementing the State Government’s policies transparently and efficiently, in line with the goals of economic development and public interest, particularly in empowering the Bumiputera community across various sectors.
“I urge all parties to stop politicising James’ appointment. Give him the space and opportunity to work, bringing with him a new vision to further strengthen Sedco’s position as a leader in Sabah’s economic development,” he said.
Earlier Sabah Umno MP Datuk Suhaimi Nasir said while the appointee’s qualifications are not in question, the “decision has unsettled many, particularly among Sabah’s Bumiputera communities who view it as a departure from Sedco’s original mission.”
“This is not an issue of race. It is a matter of principle, history and the future direction of an institution that was established to drive economic empowerment for the people of this state,” he said in a statement, Friday.
Established in 1971, Sedco was created to uplift the socio-economic standing of Sabah’s Bumiputera communities.
He said such a move may erode public confidence in Sedco and discourage young Sabahans from aspiring to leadership roles within government-linked companies (GLCs), especially those who have long served the agency with dedication and understand the local economic context.
"This decision may demoralise local talent and push them to seek recognition elsewhere. We have many highly qualified professionals, yet they’re not given the opportunity to lead,” he claimed.
Suhaimi also questioned the transparency of the selection process.
“It fuels the belief that key decisions in GLCs are made behind closed doors, by a select elite, with no regard for public sentiment or sensitivities. GLCs should not be seen as platforms for political manoeuvring,” he said.
