Jesselton Docklands Set to Redefine Kota Kinabalu’s Waterfront and Power Sabah’s Economy

3 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The RM4.2 billion Jesselton Docklands development has been hailed as a game-changer that will propel Sabah’s economy, transform Kota Kinabalu’s historic waterfront, and position the city on the global stage.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said the 35-acre redevelopment of the former Kota Kinabalu Port would drive job creation, attract new investments, boost tourism, and create far-reaching benefits for multiple sectors, including construction, retail, food and beverage, and local services.

“It is set to transform the city’s waterfront into a modern, vibrant, and sustainable urban destination. The groundbreaking of Jesselton Docklands marks another significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of Kota Kinabalu’s waterfront,” Hajiji said at today’s groundbreaking ceremony at the Jesselton Docklands Live Lab.

Finance Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun, delivered the keynote address.

He commended Suria Capital Holdings Berhad and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd, for their strategic foresight in reimagining the iconic site since the relocation of container operations to Sapangar Bay in 2007.

“What was once a working port is now evolving into a thriving hub for trade, tourism, culture, and lifestyle. Suria has played a pivotal role in reshaping the identity of our capital city. Syabas!” he said.

Hajiji also highlighted the relocation of the main passenger terminal to the South Jetty interim terminal, paving the way for a world-class international ferry terminal.

“This new facility will undoubtedly enhance comfort, safety, and efficiency for travellers while complementing the dedicated International Cruise Terminal envisioned under the Jesselton Docklands master plan,” he added.

The project, developed in partnership with BEDI Development, will feature an international cruise terminal, hotels, residences, cultural precincts, and commercial zones.

Suria is also advancing the second phase of its joint venture with SBC Corporation Berhad on the Jesselton Quay project, further propelling the evolution of the city’s waterfront.

“These landmark initiatives will give rise to a vibrant, contemporary, and globally connected waterfront city, seamlessly complemented by signature assets such as the Sabah International Convention Centre, the Kota Kinabalu Convention Centre, and the future International Cruise Terminal,” Hajiji said.

He added that the collaboration between government-linked companies and private developers epitomised the strength of public-private partnerships, with state assets and private capital converging to drive sustainable growth.

The project, he stressed, aligns with the State Government’s Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan, particularly its focus on economic growth, sustainability, and social inclusivity.

In a gesture of corporate responsibility, BEDI Development and Suria each contributed RM100,000 to relief efforts following the recent flood and natural disaster.