Role of SMEs, Empowering Sabah’s Entrepreneurs

27 February 2026

KOTA KINABALU:  Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are more than just businesses; they are families, dreams, and the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice, said the Minister of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Transport (MINDET) Datuk Ewon Benedick during the SME Sabah Chinese New Year Gala Dinner held at Port View Palace Hall, yesterday.

He said, behind every restaurant, workshop, retail shop, logistics firm, service provider, and factory lies an entrepreneur who took a risk. He reaffirmed that SMEs are central to the Sabah First agenda, a guiding principle that places Sabahans and Sabah-based enterprises at the heart of the state’s development strategy.

He stated that when investments flow into Sabah, when industries expand, and projects are undertaken, local SMEs must be active participants in this growth, not mere spectators. The government, through the Ministry, remains committed to strengthening Sabah’s industrial and entrepreneurial ecosystem by increasing SME involvement in supply chains, boosting competitiveness, and creating quality employment opportunities for Sabahans.

“Transport and logistics are key priorities, as efficient connectivity is essential to support business expansion and market access,” he said.

Ewon highlighted that Sabah SMEs are increasingly reaching international markets. In 2025, through the Ministry’s participation in 18 international trade expos and business missions, more than 115 companies generated potential sales of approximately RM95.9 million.

Building upon this momentum, the Ministry plans to participate in 13 expos in 2026, with a projected potential sales value of RM80 million. Upcoming events from March to June include FHA–Food & Beverage in Singapore, Thaifex Anuga Asia in Thailand, and Seoul Food & Hotel in Korea. SMEs are encouraged to participate, as these platforms offer opportunities for market exposure, business matching, and exploring export avenues.

MINDET is also forging strategic partnerships to facilitate market entry. One such collaboration with CAIQ Biosecurity aims to assist 25 Sabah entrepreneurs in meeting regulatory and biosecurity standards to access the Chinese market. Additionally, working with AEON Mall, products from 20 Sabah entrepreneurs will be promoted across outlets, providing valuable retail exposure and enhancing brand visibility.

Ewon noted that these initiatives demonstrate Sabah products have strong international and commercial appeal. With the right partnerships and market access, local SMEs are well-placed to expand globally and compete confidently.

He also expressed concern over congestion at Sepanggar Bay Container Port, which has impacted logistics movements within Sabah. The Sabah State Cabinet approved an Interim Action Plan on 4 February 2026 to address port congestion, while ongoing port expansion works continue.

Beyond market expansion, the Minister underlined the importance of recognising excellence. The Ministry will continue to develop the ‘Anugerah Kecemerlangan Industri Sabah’ (AKIS), a platform to celebrate outstanding achievements in innovation, competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience within Sabah’s industrial community. He urged SME members to participate actively, as many successful industry leaders started as SMEs, and their stories serve as inspiration.

Ewon acknowledged that entrepreneurs cannot do this alone and highlighted ongoing initiatives in financing, training, and capacity building, which are designed to empower SMEs at various stages of growth.

He also paid tribute to women entrepreneurs, whose resilience and long-term vision greatly contribute to Sabah’s economic strength. As a sign of ongoing support, the Ministry announced a contribution of RM20,000 to the SME Association of Sabah, supporting the Women Entrepreneur Bureau and ongoing efforts to empower women-led businesses.

The Minister emphasised that Sabah’s progress depends on collaboration. Governments, businesses, and associations must work together with speed, direction, and unity, like the galloping horse in the theme of the evening, to achieve remarkable results.

He called on everyone to move forward with confidence, strengthen local participation, and improve competitiveness, so that Sabah SMEs may run confidently and successfully like the galloping horse (2026 being Year of the Horse in the Chinese Calendar). He wished all attendees good health, smooth business operations, and prosperity in the year ahead.

Also present during the event were Dr. Daledda Tan H. S. President of SME Association of Sabah and members of the association.