Sabah is planning three new industrial parks in Kudat, Kota Belud, and Beaufort to drive investment and job creation.
Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe said the state Cabinet approved the projects on Wednesday (Feb 12) as part of broader economic expansion plans.
Kudat’s 1,600ha Blue Economy Industrial Park, led by the Sabah Economic Development Corporation (Sedco), will focus on seafood-related industries and logistics.
“The project will integrate local communities into the industrial ecosystem,” Phoong told reporters in Kota Kinabalu.
Sedco, which owns 500ha in Kudat, will oversee the park’s master plan.
The second park, covering 6,000ha in Kota Belud, will be developed by Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP Sdn Bhd).
Phoong said the site includes hilly terrain suitable for renewable energy projects.
The third industrial park, spanning 2,000ha, will be located in Beaufort instead of Kimanis due to land acquisition challenges.
“The relocation avoids extensive land purchases, similar to what happened with the Pan Borneo Highway,” he explained.
Sabah Oil and Gas Development Corporation (SOGDC) will draft the Beaufort Industrial Park’s master plan.
Phoong said the industrial parks would be a “game changer” for Sabah’s economy.
“With these parks, we will attract more investments, set up more factories, and create high-paying jobs for our youth,” he added. – February 13, 2025.
