Sabah Targets 5.8 Pct Annual Growth Under 13MP - Hanifah Hajar

TAWAU, Oct 3 (Bernama) -- Sabah is projected to record stronger economic growth at an annual rate of 5.8 per cent under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) for the 2026–2030 period, said Deputy Economy Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib.

She said the state can achieve this by capitalising on its strengths in agro-commodities, agriculture, fisheries and eco-tourism.

“Under 13MP, emphasis will be on value creation through downstream products, technological innovation, the blue economy and digitalisation.

“Special focus will be given to Tawau, Lahad Datu, Semporna and Kalabakan, which represent nearly 900,000 people and form a strategic border with Indonesia,” she said during the Jelajah Jalinan Borneo 13MP Programme here today.

She said Tawau could be developed as a hub for trade and services in Sabah’s east coast, while the Palm Oil Industrial Cluster (POIC) in Lahad Datu would be strengthened as a regional agro-commodity and logistics centre.

“In Semporna, we aim to boost marine tourism and coral reef conservation, while Kalabakan will be developed as a logistics and border trade hub with Indonesia’s Nusantara, particularly for food crop products,” she added.

Hanifah Hajar said Sabah has the potential to become a key driver of Malaysia’s economy, in line with the Sabah Maju Jaya vision and the MADANI Economy framework.

She also noted that Sabah’s allocation under 13MP should be larger than other states due to its urgent development needs.

“Infrastructure in other states is more complete compared to Sabah. The government will therefore continue to prioritise basic facilities such as roads, utilities and internet connectivity to improve living standards,” she said.

Hanifah Hajar added that today’s programme was not only to explain 13MP to the people but also to gather feedback on their needs and priorities.

-- BERNAMA