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KOTA KINABALU: A road map is being put in place to strengthen Sabah’s industrial parks, empower small businesses and modernise transport infrastructure under the state’s Budget 2026, says Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick (pic).
He said that the allocation for RM105.67mil for supply and RM88.36mil for development under the state budget for next year highlights the state government’s recognition for industries, entrepreneurship and transport which are critical for the development of Sabah’s economy.
“This integrated effort will put Sabah in a competitive position and also create more jobs and improve the well‑being of our people,” he said during a debate on the budget yesterday.
Ewon, who is Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transportation Minister, said RM43.53mil was allocated for infrastructure upgrades at Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park, Lahad Datu Palm Oil Industrial Cluster and Sabah Oil and Gas Industrial Park Sipitang.
A total of RM16.9mil was allocated for the development of shoplots and business premises across various districts under Sabah Economic Development Corporation and RM5mil for a new Entrepreneurship Coordination Programme.
The others were Sabah Railway modernisation (RM18.19mil), port and wharf improvements (RM4.75mil).
He added Sabah will obtain a federal grant of RM145.78mil with RM37.4mil earmarked for industrial parks.
Overall, he said Sabah recorded RM7.54bil in manufacturing investments in the third quarter of 2025, and is ranked sixth nationwide.
“We are targeting next year to include renewables, blue economy, biomass and food processing,” he added.
