Kota Kinabalu: Government agencies must collaborate with financial institutions, industry groups, and the private sector to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) navigate operational hurdles, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
In a speech delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Ceasar Mandela Malakun at the opening of the BigSabah Sale 2026 at the Sabah International Convention Centre on Saturday, Hajiji stressed that SMEs remain vital to sustaining jobs and rural livelihoods across the State.
He noted that local entrepreneurs continue to grapple with rising costs alongside limited access to financing, modern technology, and wider markets, which can be mitigated through the adoption of digital tools, e-commerce, and digital payment systems.
Hajiji added that Sabah’s strategic position within the Bimp-Eaga subregion presents vast export potential for local food, agricultural produce, handicrafts, and services to Brunei, Indonesia, and the Philippines, provided businesses upgrade product quality, branding, and packaging.
He also urged local traders to leverage cross-border business-to-business engagements and rising tourist arrivals ahead of Visit Sabah 2027 to secure lasting partnerships, distribution deals, and fresh investments.
