KOTA KINABALU: The development of the jade industry for handicraft and tourism at the foothills of Mount Kinabalu would help boost the local economy, says Datuk Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
The Deputy Chief Minister said that the government would support the local handicraft industry as it has the potential to grow and boost the income of locals.
He said this when speaking at the launch of the Kinabalu Jade Handicraft and Kinabalu Jade Eco-Tourism Association at Kampung Nalumad in Ranau about 100km from here Monday (Nov 23).
Dr Joachim said that the idea to promote jade eco-tourism as a product for the village was a good idea.
He said that the association's president Jirus Miun informed him that jade was readily available within their particular locality.
However, Dr Joachim advised those venturing into the jade industry to follow the right channels and to work with the district officer and outline their activities.
He said that natural resources came under the licensing and control of the state government and as such, he said it was important for the association to work closely with the district office in their activities.
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