MINDET Targets Three New Industrial Parks in Sabah

29 April 2026

KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship, and Transport Sabah (MINDET) will focus on developing three new industrial parks in the state this year.

Its Minister, who is also Deputy Chief Minister III, Datuk Ewon Benedick, said the projects involve the Kudat Blue Economy Industrial Park, Kota Belud Industrial Park, and Beaufort Industrial Park.

He explained that these developments form part of the state government's strategy to strengthen the industrial sector, expand investment areas, and stimulate more balanced and inclusive economic growth.

“The development of the manufacturing sector is a key driver of Sabah’s economic growth and a foundation for creating more job and business opportunities."

“The Ministry will remain committed to attracting high-impact investments and streamlining investment processes in an integrated manner with relevant agencies to ensure Sabah stays competitive as an investment destination,” he said.

He said this when delivering his ministry’s winding-up speech at the State Legislative Assembly sitting here today.

Ewon said that for the Kudat Blue Economy Industrial Park, the development master plan is being prepared by SEDCO.

He noted that the Kota Belud Industrial Park, under KKIP Sdn Bhd, already has an approved master plan, with the next focus on preparing infrastructure and utilities.

“For the Beaufort Industrial Park, a land suitability study has been conducted, and the next processes involve land acquisition and master plan preparation,” he said.

Meanwhile, he said MINDET is also bolstering entrepreneurship development by expanding market access for local products and forging strategic partnerships with domestic and international supermarkets.

He added that the ministry will conduct courses with Perbadanan Harta Intelek Malaysia (MyIPO) to raise awareness and compliance with intellectual property protection among entrepreneurs.

In addition, participation in international trade expos in several countries will continue to broaden global markets.

“Sabah’s manufactured product exports rose to RM8.78 billion in 2025 from RM8.31 billion in 2024, reflecting the great potential of local entrepreneurs in the global market,” he said.

To support local products, Ewon said the Buy Sabah-Made Goods campaign will continue through the PMKS Entrepreneur Carnival in several districts, including Tenom, Tawau, and Kuala Penyu, this year.

He noted that the SME-UP 2026 2.0 Outreach Programme will also be implemented statewide to widen entrepreneur participation, with the aid application deadline extended until 16 May.