KOTA KINABALU: A total of 119 operational factories in Lahad Datu have drawn RM3.66 billion in investments, generating 7,305 jobs, said Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe.
Of these, 48 companies operate within POIC Lahad Datu, contributing RM2.386 billion and creating 1,950 jobs, while others in Silam and elsewhere added the rest.
POIC, launched in 2005, has evolved beyond palm oil to support diverse industries. It boasts modern infrastructure and has been approved to establish a Free Zone, expected to boost high-value investments.
Major projects include Project Neptune (RM9.2 billion, 3,500 jobs) and Legenda Biomass Sdn Bhd’s RM400 million biomass facility. A new seawater desalination system is also underway to meet industrial water needs.
Phoong reaffirmed the State’s commitment to driving industrial growth in line with the Sabah Maju Jaya plan.
