KCCI going forward with New Initiatives to Boost Indigenous Entrepreneurs

5 December 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) will hold a series of new programmes and strategic collaborations aimed at strengthening the participation of indigenous entrepreneurs in high-value industries.

KCCI President Datuk Ladislaus Maluda said this during the Installation and Oath taking ceremony held here tonight which was graced by newly appointed Deputy Chief Minister cum Minister of Industry, Entrepreneur and Transport Datuk Ewon Benedick.

He also thanked the Minister, stating that Ewon had done a lot to help KCCI to be visible in the Federal level, after 27 years of just operating within the State.

"In the past we were a group of people who depended solely on Government projects, but it's not so easy now. Nowadays we include all entrepreneurs, we have arts and photography, among others."

Meanwhile Datuk Stephen Sampil, the event organising chairman and Deputy President of KCCI in his speech said, "Since its inception nearly 30 years ago, KCCI has assiduously striven to fulfil its role as a torchbearer and flagship for the development and progress of indigenous entrepreneurship and participation in the nation’s business sector."

"Today’s event represents the work and contributions of KCCI in empowering our orang asal in business, commerce and industry."

The installation of KCCI office-bearers for the 2025–2028 term reiterates both the need and the commitment of every member of the KCCI Supreme Council to carry out the portfolio assigned to them, he said adding that with this installation, the members will be more aware of their respective responsibilities and, consequently, better able to contribute effectively to supporting our indigenous business stakeholders, the community.

"To further empower our indigenous community, KCCI has also initiated its Entrepreneurship Programme, through which deserving businesspeople are recognised with awards in various categories. This programme not only acknowledges the efforts, struggles and sacrifices of individuals in developing their businesses, but also provides real and effective role models for others to emulate and to inspire them to pursue even greater heights."

In its quest to broaden its reach and offer more effective assistance to the wider indigenous business community, KCCI has entered into a strategic collaboration with Jaringan Semangat S/B, a technology-driven organisation serving the machinery and equipment sector, he said.

"Through this collaboration, KCCI intends to establish a 3D printing technology training hub for our indigenous community. We hope that this initiative will help transform our low-value business landscape into one characterised by high-value, technology-based activities, enabling our businesses and workers to enjoy higher incomes and, consequently, a higher standard of living."

The office bearers for 2025 to 2028 are President Datuk Ladislaus Maluda, Deputy President Datuk Stephen Sampil, VP Catharine Vitalis, Secretary General Pius Jaua, VP Paul Ipoh Leokin, VP Samson Shak, VP Agil Ali Bajarai, VP Carl Moosom, VP Anne Antah, Asst. Secretary General Sylvia Olas, VP Roger Amandus, VP Barbara Mojilip, VP Deana Mojigoh, Treasurer Petrus Chia, VP Dr Edwin Richard Sumpong, VP Edmond Lo, Executive Secretary Titik Dundie Mojigoh, VP Dennison R Indang and VP William Thomas Kokou.