4 days ago
450 youths in Sipitang hope to land oil and gas jobs
Published on: Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Published on: Wed, Jun 18, 2025 Text Size: Dr Yusof with the young attendees. Kota Kinabalu: The State Government's commitment to prioritise local employment at the Sipitang Oil and Gas Industrial Park (Sogip) has been realised, with many Sipitang youths now working at the Sabah Ammonia Urea (Samur) Petronas Chemical Fertilisers Sabah. Sipitang Assemblyman Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob said the initiative, discussed years ago with Petronas and Sogip operators, ensures job opportunities for locals, whether through vendors, subcontractors, or direct employment.
Advertisement 'The recent Sogip Open Day, organised by Petronas and other companies, interviewed 450 youths. We urge swift hiring decisions to absorb them into the workforce,' said Dr Yusof at the event's launch. He was joined by Sipitang MP Datuk Matbali Musah, Petronas officials and local leaders. With six companies set to operate in Sogip, including Petroventure, Gibson, Esteel and Sogip Port, total investments are projected at RM72 billion across 4,065 hectares. The construction phase alone will require 3,500 workers, potentially surging to tens of thousands once all plants are operational. The Samur alone will employ 500 permanent staff, with additional roles in maintenance, landscaping and pipeline upkeep. Dr Yusof noted that the influx of workers and their families could boost Sipitang's population to 25,000, spurring demand for housing, vehicle services, food supplies and retail. 'Locals must equip themselves with industry-relevant skills and explore downstream sectors like logistics, food services and childcare,' he added. The Sogip project aligns with the Sabah Maju Jaya development plan and is expected to drive Sipitang's economic growth for decades. * 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.
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