Government revitalising Sandakan Municipal Council Tower to boost local economy

LocalBusiness & Finance
17 Apr 2025 • 11:00 AM MYT
Daily Express
Daily Express

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By: Jozie John

Kota Kinabalu: The State Government is taking steps to revitalise the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) Tower, aiming to turn it into a productive and strategic asset that helps boost economic activity in the heart of Sandakan city.

Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Isnin Haji Aliasnin, said several initiatives have been identified to support the building’s transformation.

“Firstly, we aim to optimise the utilisation of the building. MPS is currently exploring more effective and suitable asset management models, namely the lease model or public-private partnership (PPP), to maximise the use of space and position the building as a long-term economic hub through private investment,” he said.

He added that the second initiative focuses on attracting investment and tenants by offering competitive rental packages to corporate clients and potential investors.

This goes hand-in-hand with efforts to collaborate with the private sector to upgrade facilities and services within the building.

“Thirdly, infrastructure and facilities will be upgraded. MPS is undertaking and will continue improvement works including drainage systems, installation of CCTV, street lighting, and safety measures around Sandakan city centre, including the vicinity of the MPS building.

“Fourth, generating additional revenue streams. Beyond rental income, MPS can also benefit from advertising rights on billboards located on the building,” he added.

Isnin expressed hope that under the leadership of MPS’s new President, alongside the commitment of the council’s management, these efforts would empower MPS building to become a productive municipal asset, boosting occupancy rates, stimulating economic activity, and securing optimal returns for the council.

“These measures will serve as a catalyst for revitalising Sandakan City Centre into a more vibrant and competitive Central Business District (CBD), and an active economic hub,” he said.

He was responding to a question from Datuk Poon Ming Fung @ Frankie (DAP–Tanjong Papat) during the Sabah State Legislative Assembly sitting today. Poon had asked what steps the state government is taking to turn the MPS Tower into a productive local authority asset and attract more economic activity to the area.

Isnin was responding to a question raised by Datuk Poon Ming Fung @ Frankie (DAP–Tanjong Papat) during the Sabah State Legislative Assembly sitting on Tuesday.

Poon had asked what steps the state government is taking to turn the MPS building into a productive local authority asset and attract more economic activity to the area.