Phoong being briefed by Uniang Plastic Industries management about its manufacturing production line.
KOTA KINABALU: Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe visited five local manufacturers in Inanam here yesterday to engage with the local manufacturing sector and understand their needs for expansion and upscaling.
The visit underscores his Ministry’s commitment to fostering industrial growth and enhancing the economic landscape of Sabah.
Accompanied by FMM Sabah Chairman James Ha, Phoong toured five factories, namely HKT Industries Sdn Bhd, Uniang Plastic Industries Sdn Bhd, Dong Sin Food Sdn Bhd, Rinajadi Sdn Bhd and Hong Xin Food Sdn Bhd.
The primary concern expressed by all five owners was the insufficient space needed to upscale and expand their production lines to meet increasing demand and boost Sabah’s export capacity.
“I am heartened to witness the resilience and ambition of our local manufacturers. After listening to their needs, I am committed to facilitating their expansion efforts. Ensuring our manufacturers have the necessary land and resources is paramount. It is my utmost priority to foster an environment where our local industries can flourish,” said Phoong.
The Minister emphasised the broader impact of supporting local manufacturers, noting that expansion efforts will lead to increased employment opportunities for Sabahans.
“HKT Industries Sdn Bhd, for instance, currently employs around 700 Sabahans. With the proposed expansion, they have the potential to hire even more workers, thereby contributing significantly to the local economy and improving livelihoods.”
Datuk Alan Ang of Uniang Plastics Industries Sdn Bhd and Ha of Dong Sin Food Sdn Bhd expressed their eagerness to expand their production capabilities and are actively seeking potential land and space for this purpose.
They said they are prepared to meet the increasing export demands but, it is crucial that the local manufacturers are given priority access to larger spaces. This move will significantly benefit the local economy, they said.
Another factory owner Cherry Ding of Hong Xin Food Sdn Bhd expressed her gratitude to the Minister, saying they are truly thankful to Phoong for taking the time to visit their factories and listen to their challenges.
“His willingness to understand our needs firsthand and offer his support is greatly appreciated. We look forward to working together to achieve our expansion goals and contribute to the economic development of Sabah,” she said.
This visit marked a pivotal step in the collaboration between the Government and local industries, aiming to elevate Sabah’s manufacturing capabilities and position the state as a competitive player in the global market.
