Sabah's economic confidence boosted by Tourism and property sectors

24 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Tourism and property development are creating jobs, spurring entrepreneurship and strengthening long-term confidence in Sabah’s economy, said Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

He urged both the public and private sectors to deepen collaboration in driving inclusive, sustainable and future-oriented growth.

“As we bring PropEX 2025 to a close, I encourage all of us – whether in the public or private sector – to continue working together. Let us focus on development that is inclusive, sustainable and future-oriented, improving lives and building communities across Sabah,” he said at the closing of the Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers Association (SHAREDA) PropEX 2025 today.

Dr Joachim, who is also Local Government and Housing Minister, said the synergy between property and tourism reflects a positive outlook for Sabah’s growth.

He noted that major investments in strategic industries and new urban developments are reshaping the state’s economic landscape.

Citing the Kibing Group’s plan to invest RM7.2 billion in a solar glass manufacturing facility in Kimanis, he said the project could generate up to 5,000 jobs across three phases if fully realised. This would be in addition to the company’s existing operations in KKIP, which already employ more than 1,600 Sabahans and export to global markets.

“This signals a promising shift towards high-tech, sustainable industries in our state,” he said.

Dr Joachim also highlighted the evolving property sector in Kota Kinabalu, where several landmark projects are under way. These include The V by Jesselton in the city centre, The Bedrock @ Jesselton Docklands under the waterfront revitalisation plan, The Logg in Luyang with its integrated lifestyle and retail spaces, and Boulevard 360 @ Bundusan in Penampang.

“These projects reflect strong investor confidence and a growing demand for dynamic, well-designed urban living environments,” he said, adding that the property sector’s momentum is being further reinforced by Sabah’s resurgent tourism industry.

In Kota Kinabalu, the return of international and domestic travellers has revitalised businesses, boosted confidence and opened new opportunities. Meanwhile, Semporna is enjoying a tourism boom, with the upcoming Wyndham Semporna Resort set to elevate its standing as a premier marine and island destination.

“When completed, it will be the first internationally branded resort in Semporna, putting it on par with top-tier destinations in the region,” he added.

Dr Joachim congratulated SHAREDA for successfully hosting PropEX 2025, describing it as more than a property showcase – a platform for dialogue, partnerships and vision-setting for Sabah’s future development.

Also present were Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Dr Jamili Nais; Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, Datuk Dr Roland Chia; SHAREDA President, Datuk Johnny Wong Chen Yee; SHAREDA Immediate Past President, Datuk Sr Chua Soon Ping; SHAREDA Honorary Advisor and Past President, Datuk Susan Wong Siew Guen; and SHAREDA Deputy President, Benny Ng Su Pei.