KOTA KINABALU: Special treatment and considerations for foreign investors should not come at the expense of Sabahans, says Parti Warisan.
Its vice-president Datuk Junz Wong said it was understandable if special deals were given to foreign investors such as South Korea's SK Group and China's Kibing Group.
“As I previously noted, Sabah Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe gave special deals to foreign investors like SK and Kibing, offering them discounted electricity and guaranteed water supplies,” he said in a statement on Monday (Aug 19).
“(But do we) prioritise these investors over our local business community and residents?"
Wong said the issue went beyond tax breaks.
"We're asking if it's true that these companies are receiving electricity and water tariffs far lower than what our local businesses are charged, and with guarantees of consistent supplies.
“This is what Sabahans want to know, and we demand transparency and accountability in these matters," he added.
The Tanjung Aru assemblyman also questioned the state government's apparent willingness to have local businesses subsidise the cost of these incentives through higher rates and frequent disruptions in service.
"Is it common practice anywhere in the world that a government would prioritise foreign investors to the extent that its local businesses subsidise their utilities and face constant disruptions?
“I find it bizarre that it's considered acceptable for our Sabah business community to endure higher electricity tariffs and water rates while suffering (frequent) water and power disruptions,” he said.
He said local businesses and the broader community should not be made to bear such a burden as the desire for more jobs and factories should not lead to undue hardship for the state's people.
"Of course, Sabahans want to see more jobs and factories, but not at the cost of our people suffering from higher utility bills and constant disruptions, while investors explore our natural resources and get to enjoy cheaper rates and regular (utility) supply,” Wong said.
