KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has established a Blue Economy Council to coordinate and implement strategic policies for the state's blue economy.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor announced that the council was set up following approval from the State Cabinet on Monday (June 16).
He explained that the council aims to assist Sabah in developing its blue economy holistically, inclusively, and competitively.
"This is part of the state government’s strategic initiative to coordinate main policies, approve high-impact programmes, and oversee policy drafts and strategies for the blue economy in Sabah," he said.
Hajiji said the council will also drive technology and innovation in maritime sectors, aligning with modern economic developments that emphasise sustainability and advanced technology.
He noted that the council is crucial for strengthening cooperation among government agencies, academics, industries, and communities to make Sabah a leading blue economic driver in Southeast Asia.
"This reflects our ongoing commitment to optimise Sabah’s sea industry potential, expand investment opportunities, and ensure the wellbeing of the people through sustainable and robust developments," he said.
With this council, Sabah is on the right path towards achieving maritime and sea-based economic growth.
During the meeting, Hajiji presented letters of appointment to eight council members from the state's top leadership.
These include the three Deputy Chief Ministers, Finance Minister, Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister, State Secretary, Sabah’s Chief Justice, and Director of the State Economic Planning Unit.
Seven technical committee chairpersons were also appointed to lead various components of the council, including sea trade, yield management, maritime health, new resource generation, marine planning, intellectual property, and river management.
These technical chairpersons include senior officials from agencies like the state Land and Surveys Department, Sabah Biodiversity Centre, and Natural Resources Office.
The Sabah Maju Jaya secretariat will serve as the council’s secretariat to coordinate decisions and implementations effectively and strategically.
