KOTA KINABALU: Usukan State Assemblyman Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak has voiced his strong endorsement of the state government’s initiative to set up three new industrial parks in Kudat, Kota Belud, and Beaufort, describing it as a crucial step towards fostering inclusive rural development.
During a debate in the State Legislative Assembly today, he highlighted that while the announcement is a positive development, the ultimate success of these parks will largely depend on the prompt establishment of essential infrastructure, such as access to clean water, dependable electricity, and adequate road connectivity.
“We need to ensure that these parks are more than just theoretical concepts. Infrastructure must be developed concurrently to attract serious investors,” he stated.
Additionally, he recommended that the Kudat industrial park be considered for designation as a Free Trade Zone and proposed that Kudat and Kota Belud be developed as a Northern Sabah Development Zone to stimulate export activities and create job opportunities.
To enhance effectiveness, he encouraged the government to match industry sectors with regional strengths—such as agro-based production in Kota Belud, seafood processing in Kudat, and logistics in Beaufort—and to offer investment incentives like tax reductions and skills development programmes.
Regarding the recently introduced free accident insurance for residents of Sabah, he expressed appreciation for the initiative but requested more information on coverage details, claims processes, and whether it extends to informal workers, including farmers, fishermen, and small traders.
The former Sabah Chief Minister also highlighted a significant issue: the current approach to measuring poverty.
“It is essential to reassess how poverty is quantified. Income alone fails to capture the genuine challenges faced by rural Sabahans, particularly among the indigenous communities,” he stated.
He suggested implementing a Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) specifically designed for Sabah, which would consider local living costs, access to essential services, and non-financial difficulties.
He concluded his address by expressing his full support for the government’s policy statement and sending festive greetings to all communities in Sabah celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Easter, and the Kaamatan Harvest Festival.
