KOTA KINABALU: Political stability and capable leaders are most needed by businesses in Sabah, says Malaysia–China Chamber of Commerce Sabah president Datuk Dexter Lau.
He said rather than constantly pushing for change and fixating on fixing problems, Sabah needs leaders who can stabilise the government and do their jobs well.
Lau added that repeatedly changing governments due to unresolved issues such as water, electricity or road conditions is not good for progress.
“Yes of course these issues need to be addressed once and for all but while you are at it, you need to also focus on bringing development, enticing investors and spurring the economy,” said Lau.
He said this way the government can generate revenue and people can prosper from active economic growth while pressing issues are not sidelined and added that these priorities must go hand in hand with a balanced focus.
Lau said investors and businesses want consistent policies so they can plan operations without worrying about constant changes in systems and laws.
“Unless there is a very good reason for that change, or the change is for correctional purposes then yes, change but if it is just for the sake of sinking a working ship, that would not benefit anyone,” he said.
He said many businesses are satisfied with the current government’s performance, although they agree there is room for improvement.
Lau said the current Sabah for Sabahan sentiment is not entirely positive because domestic players must work with outsiders.
“Sabah is just a small player,” he said.
“Did you know that even the smaller towns and cities in China are already bigger than Sabah? So if we are just playing with ourselves, we are very small. We need to also work with others outside Sabah so that we can expand, exchange and benefit from each other,” he added.
Lau cautioned politicians, the public and business players not to underestimate the power of politics or to stir sentiments lightly.
When asked if he was considering entering politics, he said his focus is on expanding and strengthening his family business.
He was previously speculated to be considered as a new urban area candidate for a local coalition but said those talks were untrue.
