Sabah is ready to welcome investors with the expertise, experience and financial strength needed to support inclusive social and ecological development while creating sustainable benefits for the state and its people, Bernama reported.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said Sabah’s economy has undergone a significant transformation, moving beyond its traditional primary sector foundation into a more diversified and dynamic economy.
“In line with Malaysia’s broader economic goals, our commitment to growth remains strong. Sabah is open for business,” he said in his keynote address at the Asia-Pacific Impact Investment Summit for Sustainable Development in Sabah, delivered by Deputy Chief Minister II cum Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
Hajiji said impact investment plays an important role by directing capital into ventures that generate social and environmental benefits alongside financial returns. He added that the summit provides an important platform for industry leaders and stakeholders to exchange ideas, strengthen global partnerships and introduce solutions aimed at sustainable development.
“This marks a major step in Sabah’s bid to become a leading Asia-Pacific hub for sustainable development and impact investment,” he said.
He highlighted that the Asia-Pacific region remains a key investment destination due to strong economic growth, rapid urbanisation and expanding markets, while increasingly becoming a global leader in technology, green energy and sustainability.
On conservation efforts, Hajiji said Sabah had long protected its forests, oceans, wildlife and ecosystems before sustainability became a global focus.
“Nearly 30 per cent of Sabah is under Totally Protected Areas. We also remain a net carbon sink, backed by vast forests that boost our carbon absorption capacity,” he said.
However, Hajiji acknowledged that Sabah continues to face pressing development needs, including improving road infrastructure, ensuring reliable power supply, expanding clean water access and creating wider economic opportunities for its people.
