KOTA KINABALU : – The Sabah Agro-Industrial Precinct (SAIP) has been tasked by the State Government with advancing industrialization and enhancing the downstream development of the agro sector.
This effort is now spearheaded by the newly appointed Chairman, Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, who also serves as the Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Sabah.
The Sabah government aims to transform SAIP into a self-sustaining, independent commercial entity, ensuring long-term economic viability for Sabah’s agro-based industries.
Since its establishment nearly two decades ago, SAIP was officially placed under the Ministry of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship in 2023.
The appointment of Phoong underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening industrial clusters, optimizing resources, and fostering a robust agro-industrial sector.
Supported by the Sabah Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO), which has been instrumental in driving the state’s economic progress, SAIP will now focus on sustainable agro-industrial development.
Phoong has emphasized the importance of shifting away from the mere export of raw agricultural products and instead building value-added industries that process raw materials into high-quality finished goods.
This strategic initiative aims to position Sabah as an industrial export hub, tapping into lucrative markets such as China, Singapore, and West Malaysia.
Under his leadership, SAIP will prioritize investment promotion, downstream industrialization, and infrastructure enhancement to strengthen the agro-based industry.
Phoong is committed to collaborating closely with industry players, related associations, investors, and stakeholders to ensure SAIP’s success and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
Phoong also extended his heartfelt appreciation to the Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor for entrusting him with this role and the responsibility of leading SAIP towards its new phase of growth.
Recognizing the collective efforts driving this initiative, Phoong expressed his gratitude to Datuk Rubin Balang, SEDCO Chairman, newly appointed Group General Manager Datuk James Wong, and the new General Manager of SAIP, Encik Annef Osyairi, for their dedication and support.
Their collaboration will be instrumental in transforming Sabah into a leading hub for agro-industrial excellence, ensuring the sector’s long-term sustainability and viability.
