Hajiji: Sabah records strongest economic growth in six years

KOTA KINABALU — Sabah's economy expanded by 5.1% last year, marking the strongest growth in six years, with Gross Domestic Product reaching RM88.8 billion, according to Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. The growth was propelled by the services sector, which expanded 4.5%, manufacturing grew 5%, and construction surged 28.3%.

During his speech at the Sabah edition of Borneo 2026, Hajiji emphasized turning this momentum into stronger local businesses, higher-value industries, better jobs, and opportunities for all communities. He highlighted the state's RM12.02 billion development ceiling under the 13th Malaysia Plan, which would include 933 new projects and 240 extensions to further boost Sabah's competitiveness and attractiveness to investors.

Hajiji reiterated Sabah's potential in agriculture, the Blue Economy, and downstream industries due to its natural resources and strategic location. Additionally, he stressed the importance of transitioning from oil and gas exploration to downstream activities, technology, investment, and skilled labor development to capture more economic value and create wider benefits for Sabah.