Latest news with #PhoongJinZhe
Daily Express
20 hours ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing hails removal charges delay
Published on: Friday, June 20, 2025 Published on: Fri, Jun 20, 2025 Text Size: The decision reflects a thoughtful approach to address the challenges faced by the industry, particularly as the manufacturing sector continues to grapple with uprising operational costs. Kota Kinabalu: The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing, (Sabah) praised DP World for its pragmatic decision to defer the enforcement of the removal charges implementation to Sapangar Bay Container Port's users from June 4, 2025 to July 15, 2025. It was to gauge feedback from port users and extend the free storage period at the port container yard from five (5) days to eight (8) days. Advertisement The decision reflects a thoughtful approach to address the challenges faced by the industry, particularly as the manufacturing sector continues to grapple with uprising operational costs. These additional charges will make import cost more expensive and products less-competitive in the market as the cost would be passed on to consumers. The deferment is necessary to provide industries with the transition period to prepare for the changes. DP World imposed removal charges effective June 4, 2025 with RM45.00 per day for a 20-footer and RM90.00 per day for 40-footer container that exceed the limit of five (5) days at container yard in effort to reduce the yard congestion issue. Increased cargo volume from increased number of vessels calling on Sapangar Bay Container Port (SBCP) coupled with the surge in export containers, of some additional 3,500 per month from China and Korea investors are the main reasons for this congestion. Advertisement To alleviate the yard congestion issue, the Branch urges members and other port users to accept containers during off peak periods, namely, Saturdays, Sundays, Public Holidays and after 5.00pm on working days as a way to ease congestion. FMM hopes with the completion of expansion project aims to double SBCP's capacity by 2027 will ensure prompt and more efficient discharge of import containers and ease yard congestion. FMM Sabah is thankful for the great commitment demonstrated by the Ministry of Industrial Development & Entrepreneurship, under the helm of YB Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe who had been attentive to the plight of port users, and on numerous occasions, personally engaged with the management of DP World and visited the Port facilities. Whilst the yard congestion is a good sign of increased in exports and imports activities, we call on the Government gives greater focus to be accorded to growth of exports by local investors and to rethink future foreign investments until port infrastructure is well-developed and ready to cope with increased cargo volume. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Focus Malaysia
4 days ago
- Business
- Focus Malaysia
Sabah named most outstanding state, N. Sembilan recognised as most progressive at IBR ASEAN Awards 2025
SABAH and Negeri Sembilan have emerged as top performers in governance and development, earning national recognition for their strategic planning, economic progress and public service delivery. Their achievements will be formally recognised at the upcoming International Business Review ASEAN Awards (IBRAA) 2025 where both states are set to receive top honours for their exceptional contributions to Malaysia's growth story. Sabah will receive the 'Most Outstanding Malaysian State' award for 2024 while Negeri Sembilan has been recognised as the 'Most Progressive State'. The awards are part of a new initiative to acknowledge state-level excellence in governance and development in the prestigious IBR ASEAN Awards which sees participation from renowned companies and government agencies across Southeast Asia and beyond. Traditionally focused on honouring corporate leadership and achievements in public-private partnerships, IBRAA has expanded its scope this year to include state governments that have demonstrated exceptional performance and commitment to the people. The selection of award recipients was based on information collated from states that submitted the necessary documentation. Case studies were developed by Expert Advisors, a consultancy firm appointed to conduct this survey, which then compiled detailed reports on state-level initiatives. The final decisions were made by an adjudication panel consisting of experienced professionals and regional figures. Award with merit Sabah was selected as the 'Most Outstanding State' based on its achievements in economic growth, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, public welfare and good governance guided by the structured and far-reaching Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development plan. Sabah is now firmly positioning itself as an industrial state by 2040 with available data backing that ambition. The state recorded the highest manufacturing sector growth rate in Malaysia at 4.4% in 2023, recovering from a contraction the previous year. Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Sabah saw exponential growth by soaring from RM132.7 mil in 2023 to over RM1.078 bil in 2024. A key industrial hub, the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park is now operating at 90% occupancy, housing 288 investors and creating over 14,600 jobs for Sabahans. Major players such as South Korea's SK Nexilis (M) Sdn Bhd and China's SBH Kibing Solar New Energy (M) Sdn Bhd have invested more than RM7 bil in Sabah, drawn by the state's industrial potential and streamlined processes. 'These investors were able to obtain all the necessary approvals and begin construction within about seven months. This is something that has never been done before,' said Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Sabah's Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship. SBH Kibing Solar New Energy (M) Sdn Bhd chairman William Chen said the group's decision to invest in Sabah was due to its strategic logistics location at the heart of Southeast Asia, access to vital resources like silica sand and natural gas, and the incredible support provided by the state government. In terms of public development, Sabah has been proactive. The Rumah Mesra SMJ housing programme which targets the hardcore poor will see 3,000 units built this year. The state is also investing RM470 mil into the education sector this year with a clear focus on youth development. In environmental governance, 62% of Sabah or 4.6 million hectares, remains under forest cover. The state has also strengthened legislation and institutional frameworks, introducing 83 strategies and 295 actions to manage land and marine resources. 'Under Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor's leadership, long-term non-compliant licenses have been terminated and half a million hectares returned to the state government,' said Datuk Frederick Kugan, Chief Conservator of Forests of the Sabah Forestry Department. 'This is a major achievement for sustainable governance.' Sabah's conservation efforts are further supported by its progress on protected areas. It has expanded its Totally Protected Areas (TPAs) from 12% in 2007 to 27% in 2024, bringing it closer to the 30% global target under the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework. Apart from these achievements, the state had also signed a Commercial Collaboration Agreement (CCA) with state-owned oil giant PETRONAS which resulted in more than RM3 bil in oil and gas (O&G) payments in 2023. Tourism also showed a strong rebound with international arrivals and tourism receipts increasing by 47% following the pandemic. Meanwhile, the state has seen improved basic infrastructure with a rural electrification rate of 96.83% with full coverage targeted by 2030. To reinforce the rigour of the awards process, the IBRAA 2025 organisers have clarified that evaluation was based on independent case studies and verifiable performance data, not on paid submissions. 'What impressed us most about Sabah's transformation was the sheer depth and structure of the SMJ plan,' said Datuk Seri Azman Ujang who is chairman of the Adjudication Panel. 'It's not just a vision, it's a detailed, well-monitored strategy that touches on nearly every facet of development.' He added: 'Sabah submitted one of the most comprehensive dossiers we've ever received. That level of care and preparation speaks volumes about the calibre of leadership and governance in the state.' 'Most Progressive State' Meanwhile, Negeri Sembilan was recognised as Malaysia's Most Progressive State for its long-term development planning and consistent growth efforts. The state's transformation is anchored by the Rancangan Struktur Negeri Sembilan 2045 (RSNS 2045) and Malaysia Vision Valley (MVV) 2.0, both of which aim to strengthen regional connectivity and economic diversity. Negeri Sembilan is currently home to more than 60 industrial parks, many of which are nearing full capacity, with over 900 companies from more than 20 countries currently operating in these parks. When contacted, Negeri Sembilan Tourism, Arts and Culture executive councillor Nicole Tan Lee Koon said she was proud that her state had been recognised as Malaysia's Most Progressive State. 'This recognition is a testament to the state leadership that saw the successful implementation of RSNS 2045 and MVV 2.0 which is expected to contribute up to 15% of Malaysia's GDP and create over 600,000 jobs,' revealed Tan who is also the two-term Bukit Kepayang state assemblywoman. The awards will be presented at a gala event scheduled to be held on July 19 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC). Themed Reimagining ASEAN, the event coincides with Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship for 2025 and is expected to attract government leaders, diplomats, business executives and other distinguished guests from the region. The IBRAA 2025 gala is expected to be attended by key government and corporate figures from across ASEAN. As it is, Sabah seems to be on the brink of a major transformation. If the current momentum continues, we can expect to see a new Sabah which is strong, strategic and firmly anchored in its promise to the rakyat. With continuity and time, Sabah can become one of the region's most dynamic success stories. – June 17, 2025 Post-script: The IBR ASEAN Awards secretariat serve not only to celebrate past achievements but also to inspire continued excellence among ASEAN's public and private sector leaders. Nominations are still open for other categories in the IBRAA 2025, including corporate excellence, public-private partnerships and leadership awards. Organisations across ASEAN are invited to submit their entries by June 30. Nominations can be submitted online at For more information, the organisers can be reached at 012-861 9126 or 012-433 9914. Main image credit:
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Phoong: DAP committed to policy-driven politics
Phoong KOTA KINABALU (June 16): Sabah Democratic Action Party (DAP) chief Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe has reiterated the importance of policy-driven politics as Pakatan Harapan (PH) continues internal deliberations on its direction ahead of the upcoming state election. This comes in response to Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor's recent remarks that Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) should once again lead the next state administration. Responding to media queries after witnessing the signing of a joint development agreement (JDA) between Qhazanah Sabah Berhad (QSB) and Bina Indah Development Sdn Bhd (BIDSB) for The Hill @ Damai project, Phoong emphasized that PH has yet to reach a conclusive decision on its political alignment. 'As far as PH and DAP are concerned, many matters remain undecided. I echo what Datuk Mustapha Sakmud recently said — PH will engage in discussions with GRS,' said Phoong, who is also the Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship. He acknowledged that GRS currently leads the Sabah government, a position accepted by PH two years ago, but added that PH must remain flexible and responsive to the state's dynamic political realities. 'We cannot pretend that today's political scenario is final. Things change daily, and we must assess and adapt accordingly. That is why our discussions are ongoing,' he said. Phoong confirmed that PH Sabah's top leaders, including chairman Datuk Ewon Benedick, are holding regular meetings to strategise and review seat allocations. 'Our discussions have been smooth and productive. That shows PH continues to be a viable and serious choice for Sabahans,' he said. Underscoring DAP's policy-first approach, Phoong stated that the party is not obsessed with seat negotiations but focused on governance and delivering real results. 'We don't want to be seen as a party that talks about seats every day. Those are responsibilities entrusted by the people. To earn their trust, we must deliver impactful policies,' he said. As the sole DAP minister in the current state cabinet, Phoong pointed to DAP's contributions, particularly under his ministry. 'According to MIDA, Sabah recorded its best investment performance in Q1 this year. That's a tangible outcome of our work. We've also begun pushing initiatives in renewable energy and industrial technology adoption,' he said. As the assemblyman for Luyang, Phoong said the public is more concerned about jobs, infrastructure and sustainable growth than political alliances. 'Young Sabahans are looking for jobs. People want solutions to infrastructure problems and policies that grow the economy. In DAP, that's where we focus our energy,' he stressed. Phoong also addressed PH's perceived position between GRS and Barisan Nasional (BN), saying it should be viewed as a strategic openness rather than indecision. 'The political landscape evolves every day. Being in between doesn't mean we are trapped — it means we have choices. What matters most is proving to the people that we can deliver,' he said. Reaffirming DAP's commitment to public service, Phoong concluded, 'We want to work with the people. That's our promise. DAP is not about politicking — we're here to deliver a better future for Sabah.'
The Star
5 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Sabah Pakatan Harapan yet to finalise election strategy
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Pakatan Harapan has not yet finalised its position or strategy for the upcoming Sabah state election, as internal discussions among the coalition's component parties are still ongoing. Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe said that while frequent meetings are held between Pakatan leaders, many key decisions, including potential alliances and seat allocations, remain open for discussion. 'As of now, we have not reached any final decisions. We are still assessing the political landscape and developments on the ground,' he told reporters at a joint development agreement between Qhazanah Sabah Bhd and Bina Indah Development Sdn Bhd, and the launch of Q-SME Halal Industrial Park on Monday (June 16). Echoing Sabah Pakatan chief Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, Phoong said Sabah Pakatan will engage in talks with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), taking a cautious approach before firming up its strategy. Mustapha, who is also the Deputy Higher Education Minister and Sepanggar MP, had said earlier that Sabah Pakatan needs 'more time to reassess the situation' before deciding on electoral cooperation, particularly with GRS. He noted that statements made by Pakatan secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution and GRS secretary-general Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun suggest preliminary discussions may take place, but stressed that Sabah Pakatan's leadership would continue to evaluate matters 'day by day.' 'Two years ago, we decided that GRS is the leader of the state government. That is what we accepted two years ago. So, I think, as far as (Sabah) Pakatan is concerned, we need to look into what situation unfolds every day,' Phoong said. He noted that the Sabah political landscape is unique and constantly evolving. 'We want to ensure that any decisions we make are in the best interest of the people and reflect the values and aspirations of Pakatan,' Phoong said. He said the coalition's four main component parties in Sabah, namely DAP, PKR, Amanah, and United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko), are working closely together, holding regular dialogues and maintaining good communication. 'The unity and cohesion within Sabah Pakatan are strong. We may have different views, but we are able to sit down together and discuss them constructively. That is a positive sign,' Phoong said. He also reiterated DAP's stand to focus more on policies rather than political manoeuvring, stating that the party's long-term vision for Sabah includes economic transformation, infrastructure development, and youth employment. 'At the end of the day, the people will judge us based on what we deliver, not just who we align with.' Sabah is expected to hold its state election by the end of this year, with the term of the current GRS-led government nearing its expiry.
New Straits Times
5 days ago
- Health
- New Straits Times
Sabah mulls having second National Heart Centre in KK
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is thinking of building a second National Heart Centre in the state capital to reduce reliance on treatment in the peninsula. The proposed centre will be a key component of The Hill @ Damai, a mixed-use development adjacent to Queen Elizabeth II Hospital, which is a government entity. The project is part of a joint development agreement (JDA) signed today between Qhazanah Sabah Bhd (QSB) and Bina Indah Development Sdn Bhd (BIDSB). It was launched by Sabah Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, along with QSB chairman Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob "This centre is not only vital to the Sabah healthcare landscape, but it also underscores our long-term commitment to delivering world-class medical infrastructure to the people," Dr Yusof said during the launch held at the Qhazanah Event Hall, Menara Kinabalu. He added that the high-tech facility is expected to provide more accessible specialist cardiac care for Sabahans, while reducing the state's reliance on treatment in Peninsular Malaysia. The new centre, when completed, is expected to deliver a significant boost to the local healthcare system, offering advanced treatment options and reducing waiting times for heart patients. Meanwhile, QSB also officially launched the Q-SME Halal Industrial Park, Sabah's first purpose-built halal-certified hub designed specifically for SMEs and startups. Located within the HALMAS-certified zone in Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park, it is already 77 per cent complete as of May 2025, with full completion targeted by end of this year.
