KOTA KINABALU: Shiang Lung Supply Sdn Bhd, a Sabah-based company and one of the largest wholesalers and distributors of dried seafood products in Southeast Asia, is turning the state’s natural resources into value-added products for local and international markets.
Shiang Lung currently employs about 130 people and exports its bird’s nest products to Hong Kong, Singapore and other markets. Its bird’s nest products are also halal-certified, giving the company scope to explore further opportunities in Muslim markets, including the Gulf region.
Sabah Development Bhd (SDB), a 100% Sabah state-owned government-linked company (GLC), chairman Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob said Sabah’s natural resources, from both land and sea, present opportunities for businesses and investors to develop products and create greater economic value for the state.
“I strongly support such efforts because there are investors willing to invest in Sabah to seek business opportunities. Sabah is a state rich in natural resources, whether from the sea or land. It is up to us how these resources are developed and turned into products,” he added.
Shiang Lung managing director Kent Lim said from bird’s nest to fish maw and sea cucumber, these are products with a strong connection to their home, and they see it as their responsibility to develop them with care and bring their quality to a wider audience.
“We hope to continue growing what we have built here in Sabah and show what local businesses can achieve,” he added.
Shiang Lung has already established an international presence, with its bird’s nest products exported to Hong Kong, Singapore and other markets, while its wider business spans wholesale, distribution, processing and retail.
Lim shared that the company is also taking steps to position its products for new markets, including Muslim-majority countries. “We recognised the potential of Muslim-majority markets and saw an opportunity to build on our existing business by reaching new customer segments, especially in the Gulf region. That led us to invest in obtaining halal certification as we prepare to explore these opportunities. We see this as part of building a stronger foundation for Shiang Lung’s next phase of growth and for long term expansion.”