KOTA KINABALU: Data gathering and research are critical in shaping effective policies that can improve the livelihood of the people in Sabah, says State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
He said amid growing global economic and social challenges, the state must continuously strengthen its competitiveness across various sectors.
“Another area we can focus on is improving and supporting the growth of local products.
“We need to enhance quality, marketability and branding so these products can become key economic drivers both domestically and internationally,” he said.
Masidi, who is also Deputy Chief Minister II, said this during a meeting with the Institute for Development Studies (IDS) Sabah to discuss the state’s development strategies and future direction.
The session also featured policy proposals and research aimed at strengthening development plans to make them more systematic and high-impact.
“We hope to expand strategic collaboration with IDS Sabah so that policies and plans being drawn up can holistically benefit the people,” he added.
