Chan Loong Wei (left) and Chen Ket Chuin
KOTA KINABALU: Political Secretary to the Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister, Can Loong Wei told Warisan Supreme Council member Chen Ket Chuin to make sure his facts are right before making a statement.
Chan expressed disappointment with Chen’s statement today about the Kibing group, which has invested RM3 billion in Sabah.
“Chen’s statements, particularly on the Kibing deal, contained baseless criticisms that may cast a negative light on investors committed to Sabah’s economic progress
“I had expected better from Chen, especially considering his role as a practising lawyer. It’s disappointing that he failed to get the basic facts right that is the sand mining plant is located in Sikuati, Kudat, not on Balambangan Island,” he said in a statement today.
Recognising the importance of constructive engagement in addressing concerns related to investment projects, Chan said his Minister, Phoong Jin Zhe has personally invited State Assemblymen to visit the manufacturer and gain firsthand insights.
“I extend an invitation to Chen as well, if he is genuinely concerned, so he can see for himself and even get clarification directly from the investor,” said Chan.
He also stressed the need to distinguish between legitimate criticism and baseless accusations that could harm Sabah’s reputation as an investment-friendly destination.
“Genuine investors play a vital role in our state’s development, and their contributions should be acknowledged and supported.
“The State Government also welcome constructive dialogue and collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure that our development projects align with the aspirations of our people,” he said.
Confident that Chen’s remarks do not represent Warisan’s stance as a whole, Chan cited commendations for Phoong from a Warisan State Assemblyman for Tungku during the recent State Assembly sitting.
“Furthermore, the Minister has unequivocally addressed the concerns raised by the Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal, during the State Legislative Assembly sitting. Phoong clarified how Kibing’s investment plays a pivotal role as a pioneer in paving Sabah’s way towards industrialisation,” he said.
Highlighting the positive impact of Kibing’s investment, creating over 180 job opportunities for locals in Kudat and 1,200 jobs in KKIP, Chan said the company is contributing to Sabah’s industrialisation and economic recovery.
He also shared that his Ministry under Phoong’s leadership is committed to facilitating Kibing’s investment expansion into polysilicon manufacturing in Sabah.
“A solar panel is made up of solar glass, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) or Polyolefin Elastomer (POE), and polysilicon. Kibing’s expansion is a strategic move aiming to enhance the industrial chain and potentially lead to Sabah having a complete solar panel industry chain in the future,” said Chan.
Chan urged Warisan and Chen to cease politicking and called for unity for Sabah and Sabahan’s interests.
“All parties under the Unity Government should come together and focus on recovering Sabah’s economy for the people. Let us cease the politics and focus on the people,” said Chan.
Meanwhile, Chan, who is also the Democratic Action Party Socialist Youth (DAPSY) Sabah Secretary strongly condemns the unwarranted attacks orchestrated by Sabah PAS Commissioner Aliakbar Gulasan against Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar, the Senior Political Secretary to the Prime Minister.
“These public remarks not only violate the spirit of the Unity Government but also risk undermining the peace and harmony that define Sabah’s diverse communities,” he said while echoing Datuk Jamal Nerubi’s call for Aliakbar, as a Nominated State Assemblyman, to use appropriate channels to address concerns.
“If Aliakbar is so upset with the government of the day, then he should resign with dignity and play the opposition role,” said Chan.
He said DAPSY Sabah explicitly condemns PAS for persistently attempting to destabilise the country and instil fear among the people with daily sentiments of toppling the government.
Chan urged PAS to transform into constructive opposition, cease politicking, and redirect efforts toward addressing the legitimate concerns of the people.
“The relentless attempts to sow fear and instability are detrimental to Sabah and Malaysia. PAS should play a positive role as an opposition and contribute to the well-being of the people rather than engaging in racial and religious sentiments,” urged Chan.
Furthermore, he stressed that the GRS-PH Sabah Government will continue to support the Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim-led Unity Government at the Federal level.
“This commitment is crucial to ensuring economic development and political stability for the benefit of Sabah and Malaysia.
“Aliakbar and PAS should wait until the next Sabah election, which is the time and platform for politics. For now, our focus is to address the people’s needs and strive for Sabah’s economic development,” said Chan.
