MINDET steps up efforts to realise SMJ 2.0 roadmap

31 January 2026

KOTA BELUD: The Sabah Ministry of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport (MINDET) will intensify its efforts to ensure the successful implementation of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 Roadmap, particularly in the industrial sector.

Deputy Chief Minister III and Sabah Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, Datuk Ewon Benedick, said the plan outlines a major agenda for the state’s industrial and entrepreneurial development, which must be supported by efficient logistics and port infrastructure.

He said the mandate is in line with the ministry’s role in developing a comprehensive industrial and entrepreneurial ecosystem, integrated with the transport portfolio, especially ports and logistics.

“I have submitted my initial views to the Sabah Maju Jaya Secretariat, and these views have been incorporated into the SMJ 2.0 Roadmap,” he said.

He told reporters this after officiating the Kota Belud Taekwondo Championship at the Botung Sports Complex Hall here today.

Ewon said all ministry personnel would enhance their commitment to ensure the smooth implementation of the plan and the achievement of its set targets.

Meanwhile, he informed that he would present proposals for interim solutions to address congestion issues at Sepanggar Port at the Sabah Cabinet Meeting next week.

He said that although the Sepanggar Port expansion project is being implemented as a long-term solution, it requires a lengthy period to complete, hence interim measures must be implemented immediately to address existing congestion.

“These proposed solutions have been circulated to members of the Cabinet. If approved, I am confident they will help ease congestion and provide relief to industry players,” he said.

He added that the measures are important to boost investor confidence and the confidence of industry players in Sabah’s industrial and entrepreneurial sectors.

After the Sepanggar Port issue is addressed, Ewon said his ministry would focus on the development and efficiency enhancement of Sandakan Port and Tawau Port.

“I am confident that these integrated efforts will not only contribute to the success of SMJ 2.0, but also increase the confidence of investors and business owners that port efficiency issues are being taken seriously by the State Government,” he said.

On the championship, Ewon said he would continue to provide support, especially for events organised in the Kota Belud area.

“May the participants win medals of experience, friendship and discipline, in addition to championship medals,” he said.

The championship involved 180 participants from the districts of Kota Belud, Kota Marudu, Pitas, Kota Kinabalu, Keningau, Beaufort and Putatan.