TAWAU: Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Tawau and Kalabakan are encouraged to export not only to Peninsula Malaysia but also neighbouring Indonesia.
This is especially relevant given the strategic location of both districts, which lie close to the border and Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan.
Assistant Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship, Datuk Andi Muhd Suryady Bandy, said various initiatives, platforms, assistance and incentives are available to support local MSMEs in capitalising on these opportunities.
“Nusantara has been gradually opened since August last year, and we must benefit from this development. That’s why the State government is actively working to strengthen trade ties.
“This includes collaborating with the federal government to upgrade the Customs, Immigration, Quarantine and Security (CIQS) Complex in Serudong, Kalabakan.”
Andi Suryady said this in a press conference held in conjunction with the 2025 Sabah MSME Entrepreneurs’ Carnival for the Tawau Zone and the Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House, which took place at the Tawau Municipal Council Square, here, recently.
He is confident that regional connectivity – by land, sea and air – could boost trade relations between Malaysia and Indonesia.
According to him, enhanced cooperation with the neighbouring country is essential, especially since top leaders from both nations have already established mutual understanding.
“There are many opportunities available. Some products can be exported to Indonesia, and we can also import goods from there. Most importantly, we need to establish strong business networks between the two countries.
“For example, this programme represents a broader initiative to position Tawau and Kalabakan as business hubs due to their proximity with the Indonesian border,” he said.
Regarding the event, Andi Suryady said the carnival is part of the lead-up to the upcoming Madani Programme, which will be officiated by the Prime Minister on May 11.
At the same time, he said the program offers MSMEs the chance to explore new markets, promote their products, and strengthen the local manufacturing industry.
“We hope this programme will further empower MSMEs. We also urge them to take full advantage of the government’s support – such as grants, mentorship, and training.
“Our Ministry allocated RM15 million to support entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector, including assistance with machinery, equipment, digitalization, and packaging.
“We’ve received positive feedback from entrepreneurs, and the public response has also been encouraging. However, the key lies in raising awareness around branding,” he said.
Andy Suryady who is also the Kalabakan Member of Parliament said some MSME products have strong potential for the international market, but additional support is needed – especially in leveraging digital platforms.
He said the carnival also featured business matchmaking between MSMEs and major supermarkets and attracted participation from 30 MSME entrepreneurs from Tawau, Kalabakan, and nearby areas, including Kudat.
