SANDAKAN: The Sandakan Chinese Business Association is urged to play a role as a communication bridge between the business community and the local authorities.
Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) President Walter Kenson said this is aimed at encouraging strategic cooperation to boost economic growth in Sandakan.
“The economic progress of Sandakan requires the cooperation of all parties, as the MPS can only plan and implement development if it has sufficient revenue.
“Without revenue collection such as taxes and other payments, the Council’s ability to build and upgrade basic facilities and infrastructure is highly limited,” he said while attending a recent breakfast session organised by the association.
Walter emphasised that MPS is always open to entrepreneurs, especially those who wish to submit constructive proposals or feedback that align with the development agenda.
He said MPS is implementing an administrative transformation plan, which includes the construction of a new bus terminal and air-conditioned bus stops.
“The Council is also in the process of planning new tourism routes to strengthen the local tourism sector. This plan is currently at the implementation stage,” he said.
Additionally, he has proposed to the Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Sabah, Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, to designate Sandakan as a Free Trade Zone to stimulate economic activities and investment.
He said MPS plans to organise the launch event for the “Invest in Sandakan” initiative in the next few months as an effort to attract local and foreign investors.
He reminded that attracting investment requires long-term strategies and cooperation from various parties.
Acting President of the association, Hii Ming Huat, said the association plays an important role as a vital link in building communication and closer cooperation between the private sector and local authorities.
He hoped more collaborative programmes and projects can be implemented with the Sandakan Municipal Council for the overall economic advancement of Sandakan.
