KOTA KINABALU: To promote state development and enhance the local workforce, the Malaysia–China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah has shown strong backing for the Sabah State Government’s plan to reinforce local priority policies, especially in the Oil & Gas Services and Equipment (OGSE) sector.
MCCC Sabah President Datuk Dexter Lau highlighted that this policy, developed in partnership with Petronas and industry stakeholders, generates additional job opportunities and contracts for local citizens.
He described this initiative as a strategic move to reduce the outflow of talent from Sabah while making the development of the local workforce a primary agenda.
The Deputy Secretary-General of the MCCC Sabah Women Entrepreneurs Committee, Janice Tan Wan Peng, also echoed similar sentiments.
She stressed that the government is currently providing various training platforms and job opportunities that the people of Sabah can leverage to build sustainable careers in their homeland.
“By seizing available opportunities, empowering themselves, and mastering new skills, locals can fill important positions and demonstrate the resilience and identity of Sabahans,” said Janice Tan.
She also expressed support for the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, who clearly defends Sabah’s interests.
“The state government’s decision not to award controversial mining projects to external parties is seen as evidence of the firm and principled implementation of local priority policies,” she stated.
At the same time, Tan suggested that the local priority policy should not be limited to the oil and gas sector but should also be expanded to various other economic sectors to ensure broader benefits for the people.