Latest news with #IndustrialDevelopmentandEntrepreneurship
Daily Express
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Warisan told to stop politicising investments
Published on: Thursday, June 05, 2025 Published on: Thu, Jun 05, 2025 Text Size: Chan (left) questioned whether Chong (right) and Warisan were opposed to industrialisation, noting that every time the Sabah Government secures credible investors, the opposition resorts to baseless accusations rather than constructive solutions. Kota Kinabalu: Political Secretary to the Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship, Chan Loong Wei, has called on Warisan's Elopura Assemblyman Calvin Chong to stop politicising the State's efforts to attract investments and focus on fostering economic growth. He said this in reaction to Calvin's repeated criticisms of the RM31 billion Esteel Enterprise Sabah Sdn Bhd project, a major investment set to transform Sabah's industrial sector and create thousands of jobs. 'Instead of welcoming this historic investment, the largest in Sabah and among the biggest in Malaysia, Calvin has chosen to distort facts and mislead the public, just as he did with the Kibing Group and Sandakan EV Assembly Plant projects,' Chan said in a statement, here, Wednesday. He questioned whether Chong and Warisan were opposed to industrialisation, noting that every time the Sabah Government secures credible investors, the opposition resorts to baseless accusations rather than constructive solutions. 'Politicising investments is reckless and harms Sabah's reputation. If Calvin truly seeks accountability, he should raise his concerns in the State Assembly,' Chan said. Pointing out Calvin's silence during the Sandakan EV Assembly Plant debate in the Assembly, Chan said Calvin is a populist rhetoric for publicity rather than genuine advocacy. Chan also defended Esteel Enterprise, pointing out its credibility as a company founded by a top Chinese entrepreneur with a proven track record, including the acquisition of Penang's Southern Steel Berhad in 2024. 'For an elected representative to attack without basic research is unacceptable. It disrespects the due diligence carried out by Federal and State agencies like the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, Malaysian Industrial Development Authority, and the Department of Environment,' he added. Urging Sabahans to judge Calvin's leadership, Chan said politics should be about progress, not theatrics. 'The State Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Ministry is committed to creating jobs and making Sabah investor-friendly. Continually undermining strategic projects without offering alternatives is damaging to our economy,' he said. Chan called for an end to using investments for political gain, warning that such actions risk deterring future investors and harming Sabah's development. 'Sabahans deserve better. Let us work together for a more prosperous State,' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
19-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Phoong calls for calm ahead of polls
Published on: Monday, May 19, 2025 Published on: Mon, May 19, 2025 By: Wu Vui Tek Text Size: Phoong receiving a souvenir from Goh. Kota Kinabalu: Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe has called for unity and calm ahead of the upcoming 17th Sabah state election. He said that divisions must not be allowed to disrupt the state's harmony and progress. Advertisement Speaking at a media night hosted by the Federation of Sabah Chinese Associations (FCAS) at Wisma Hakka, Phoong thanked its President, Tan Sri Goh Tian Chuan, for the opportunity to address over 160 Chinese associations gathered for the event. 'Tonight is meaningful for me. The encouragement I've received, particularly from Tan Sri, has strengthened my resolve and given me confidence,' said Phoong. He echoed Goh's message that Sabahans must remain calm in facing the upcoming state elections this year. 'Whether at home or in coffee shops, people are already discussing the direction Sabah is heading. 'But we must not allow politics to sow hatred or disrupt friendships,' he said. Advertisement He expressed hope that the Chinese community leaders will continue to work together for the greater good. Phoong also underscored the media's vital role as society's watchdog. 'We're in an age where news, both real and fake, spreads in seconds across platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok. 'AI tools like ChatGPT can now generate false or harmful content instantly. 'This places even greater responsibility on the media to stay neutral and accurate,' he said. Earlier in his speech, Goh urged the Chinese community to foster moderation, unity, and cultural preservation. He said FCAS, the largest Chinese organisation in Malaysia, remains focused on education and avoids active political involvement. 'But we must open our eyes and minds, and ask ourselves: where is the Chinese community going?' he asked. Goh said the Chinese community must support brave and young leaders who are willing to serve, even if they lack experience. 'As a member of the national Chinese community and Sabah's industrial sector, I must say the Chinese industry in Sabah feels a little cold. We must turn this around,' he said. He said Sabah is the most moderate and harmonious state in Malaysia. However, he warned that modern technology can both inform and distort. 'Technology can change your face, your music, your truth. That's why reporting facts is more important than ever,' said Goh. He called for deeper collaboration between the media and the cultural and business circles. He said we must adapt and change according to current technology while staying true to our journalistic work. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
09-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Tawau MSMEs are told to consider Indonesia
Published on: Friday, May 09, 2025 Published on: Fri, May 09, 2025 By: Amir Anuar Text Size: Andi Suryady (centre) officiates at the aid handover ceremony involving selected MSME entrepreneurs. TAWAU: Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Tawau and Kalabakan are encouraged to export not only to Peninsula Malaysia but also neighbouring Indonesia. This is especially relevant given the strategic location of both districts, which lie close to the border and Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan. Assistant Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship, Datuk Andi Muhd Suryady Bandy, said various initiatives, platforms, assistance and incentives are available to support local MSMEs in capitalising on these opportunities. 'Nusantara has been gradually opened since August last year, and we must benefit from this development. That's why the State government is actively working to strengthen trade ties. 'This includes collaborating with the federal government to upgrade the Customs, Immigration, Quarantine and Security (CIQS) Complex in Serudong, Kalabakan.' Andi Suryady said this in a press conference held in conjunction with the 2025 Sabah MSME Entrepreneurs' Carnival for the Tawau Zone and the Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House, which took place at the Tawau Municipal Council Square, here, recently. He is confident that regional connectivity – by land, sea and air – could boost trade relations between Malaysia and Indonesia. According to him, enhanced cooperation with the neighbouring country is essential, especially since top leaders from both nations have already established mutual understanding. 'There are many opportunities available. Some products can be exported to Indonesia, and we can also import goods from there. Most importantly, we need to establish strong business networks between the two countries. 'For example, this programme represents a broader initiative to position Tawau and Kalabakan as business hubs due to their proximity with the Indonesian border,' he said. Regarding the event, Andi Suryady said the carnival is part of the lead-up to the upcoming Madani Programme, which will be officiated by the Prime Minister on May 11. At the same time, he said the program offers MSMEs the chance to explore new markets, promote their products, and strengthen the local manufacturing industry. 'We hope this programme will further empower MSMEs. We also urge them to take full advantage of the government's support – such as grants, mentorship, and training. 'Our Ministry allocated RM15 million to support entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector, including assistance with machinery, equipment, digitalization, and packaging. 'We've received positive feedback from entrepreneurs, and the public response has also been encouraging. However, the key lies in raising awareness around branding,' he said. Andy Suryady who is also the Kalabakan Member of Parliament said some MSME products have strong potential for the international market, but additional support is needed – especially in leveraging digital platforms. He said the carnival also featured business matchmaking between MSMEs and major supermarkets and attracted participation from 30 MSME entrepreneurs from Tawau, Kalabakan, and nearby areas, including Kudat. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
05-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Support for small and mobile traders: Phoong
Published on: Monday, May 05, 2025 Published on: Mon, May 05, 2025 By: Crystal E Hermenegildus Text Size: Phoong, Ramzah and Adam launching the third Chunk and Dunk outlet in Imago. Kota Kinabalu: State Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship, Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, called on youths to unite and lead economic transformation through innovation and government support. Speaking at the launch of Chunk and Dunk's third outlet at Imago Shopping Mall, last Saturday, Phoong said Sabah's youth can overcome long-standing policy failures that have slowed progress. 'We've inherited outdated policies that have held Sabah back,' he said. 'But we now have a strong, motivated young generation. If we work together, we can build a resilient and successful Sabah for future generations.' His remarks followed concerns raised by Institute for Development Studies (Sabah) CEO, TS Dr Ramzah Dambul, who highlighted the neglect of Malaysia's roadside and mobile economy. Ramzah urged immediate policy support, warning of long-term consequences if informal sectors are ignored. 'We've supported foreign investors, but overlooked our small and mobile traders. 'This issue is backed by 10 years of research. As global pressures rise, we must strengthen our local economy,' Ramzah said. Ramzah called for a proper ecosystem to support these businesses, stressing that ignoring them now could lead to bigger economic challenges ahead. Agreeing with Ramzah, Phoong said youth leadership, coupled with effective policies, can drive change. He praised local entrepreneur Adam Shamil, founder of Chunk and Dunk, as a model of youth success. 'My Ministry supports young entrepreneurs like Adam by working closely with them and helping them access the right agencies,' Phoong said. Amid global uncertainties like trade wars and supply chain disruptions, he emphasized the need to strengthen Sabah's domestic economy. 'Uncertainty hurts entrepreneurs. That's why we're focusing on building a resilient local economy,' he said. Phoong also highlighted Sabah's export growth, with local products now reaching Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. He ended with a call to action: 'If we can't help our young entrepreneurs succeed at home, who will?' * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
The Star
29-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
7.5MW solar plant launched in Tawau
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has taken another major step in its green energy transition with the official launch of a 7.5MW large-scale solar tracking power plant in Balung, Tawau. The plant, a joint venture between Constant Energy, Woodford Solar Energy Holding Sdn Bhd, and Gaya Belian Sdn Bhd, was officiated by state Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe on Monday (April 28). Describing the facility as a milestone in Sabah's renewable energy drive, Phoong said the project reflects the state government's commitment to building a cleaner, more sustainable future. 'This is a significant moment for Tawau and for Sabah as a whole. This solar tracking plant signals our shift away from diesel and fossil fuels towards renewable sources that will benefit all Sabahans,' he said, adding that the state's green energy momentum continues to grow. In 2024 alone, the state government approved 15 solar projects with a combined capacity of 200MW. Sabah aims to raise this to 350MW by 2026, which would account for 20% to 25% of the state's energy mix. 'These initiatives not only diversify our energy sources but also generate high-value jobs and drive long-term sustainable growth. 'Solar energy is more than just powering homes and industries, it is powering Sabah's economic transformation,' he said. Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe (sixth right, Constant Energy chief executive officer and founder Franck Constant (seventh right), and other guests cutting the ribbon to officially openthe solar power plant in Balung on Monday (Apr 28). The Balung plant uses state-of-the-art solar tracking technology, enabling panels to follow the sun's movement and maximise energy output under various weather conditions. 'This system enhances efficiency and ensures a stable, clean electricity supply. It is both a technological advancement and a strategic investment in Sabah's energy future,' Phoong said. He acknowledged that financing remains a major challenge for large-scale solar projects, particularly during early stages. However, the state government is working closely with private investors and financial institutions to bridge funding gaps and accelerate implementation. 'Securing early-stage investment remains a hurdle for many businesses, but the Sabah Government is committed to facilitating funding through active collaboration with the private sector and financial institutions. 'These partnerships not only strengthen Sabah's economy but also increase our competitiveness in the global green energy sector.' Phoong stressed that the shift to renewable energy goes beyond economics, it also contributes to environmental preservation. 'Green energy helps reduce emissions, improve air quality, and create a healthier environment for future generations. Our efforts today will ensure a cleaner, more liveable Sabah for our children.' Looking ahead, Phoong said Sabah aims to play a key role in the global green energy supply chain through continued investments, innovation, and strategic partnerships. 'Sabah's energy vision goes beyond meeting local needs. Through innovation and collaboration, we are building a greener Sabah while contributing meaningfully to the global energy transition. 'The state is a land of natural beauty, and the future of Sabah's green energy industry is full of promise. The Sabah government will continue to champion clean energy projects like solar and wind, driving sustainable progress for our people and contributing to a greener world,' he said. Also present at the event was Constant Energy founder and chief executive officer Franck Constant.
