KOTA KINABALU: Sabah must focus on developing industries that are rooted in the strengths of its local communities to ensure long-term and inclusive growth, Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak (Usukan-Umno) suggested.
He told the state assembly that “industrial matching”, aligning development with local resources, is key to making government-announced economic zones in rural Sabah successful.
Citing the newly announced industrial parks in Kudat, Kota Belud and Beaufort, he said each region has unique economic potential that should be tapped.
“For instance, agro-food development is well-suited for Kota Belud due to its farming culture and fertile land, Kudat has strengths in fisheries and should focus on seafood processing, and Beaufort could be ideal for logistics or light manufacturing due to its location,” he said in his debate speech during the State Legislative Assembly sitting on Tuesday (Apr 15).
Salleh welcomed the state’s broader focus on rural economic expansion but cautioned that infrastructure must not be an afterthought.
“Announcements alone are not enough. These parks will only succeed if they are supported by basic infrastructure like clean water supply, stable electricity and good road access,” he said.
To attract investors, he proposed that the state government offer tax incentives, development grants, and skills training for local workers.
Salleh also proposed that Kudat Port be developed and the industrial zone in the region be considered for Free Trade Zone status.
“This will encourage downstream activities, boost exports and create jobs for the interior areas,” he said.
On another note, Salleh lauded the state’s new initiative to offer free accident insurance to Sabahans but requested more details.
“Who qualifies? What does it cover? Will it apply to accidents at home, at work or on the road? How will people make claims?” he asked, adding that informal workers such as farmers, fishermen and small traders should be included.
He also urged the government to rethink how it measures poverty in Sabah, saying current statistics may not reflect real living conditions, especially among indigenous communities in remote areas.
“Some households may be just above the poverty line on paper, but they still live without clean water, electricity or economic opportunities,” he said.
He recommended the use of a Multidimensional Poverty Index adapted to Sabah’s unique context.
Salleh ended his speech by voicing full support for the state’s policy address while reminding the government that successful development must go beyond numbers to deliver meaningful change on the ground.
