KOTA KINABALU — Government agencies must strengthen cooperation with financial institutions, industry groups and the private sector to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) overcome business challenges and seize growth opportunities, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.
He said SMEs play a vital role in Sabah’s economy by creating employment opportunities and supporting livelihoods in towns, districts and rural communities.
“Yet many face difficulties accessing finance, technology and wider markets, while rising costs put further pressure on their operations,” he said.
Hajiji said digital tools could help businesses overcome geographical barriers and expand their market reach, including entrepreneurs in rural areas.
“Through e-commerce, social media and digital payments, even entrepreneurs in rural Sabah can reach customers beyond their communities.
“We must also ensure that women, young people and community-based enterprises have the support and opportunities to grow,” he said.
His speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Ceasar Mandela Malakun at the opening ceremony of the BIGSABAH Sale 2026 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here today.
Hajiji said the event, which brings together exhibitors from 12 countries and nine states in Malaysia, would provide valuable opportunities for local SMEs to expand their businesses and establish new market connections.
He said Sabah’s strategic position within the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) offered significant potential for trade, particularly in tourism, agriculture, food production, logistics and services.
“To make the most of these opportunities, our businesses must continue improving product quality, branding and packaging. Our local foods, handicrafts, agricultural products and services have potential well beyond Sabah,” he said.
He also expressed hope that exhibitors from abroad and Peninsular Malaysia would help establish lasting trade relationships, distribution networks and investment opportunities with local businesses.
“We want to see stronger business-to-business engagement that helps our entrepreneurs move beyond showcasing products to securing partnerships that support long-term growth,” he said.
Hajiji said that as the state government worked towards achieving four million visitor arrivals in 2026 and prepared for Visit Sabah 2027, it was important to ensure that the resulting economic growth benefited local communities.
“More visitors should mean more opportunities for Sabah’s retailers, food producers, service providers and community-based businesses.
“This is where BIGSABAH Sale can contribute to the effort. Exhibitors, buyers and visitors generate demand for accommodation, transport, food and other local services.
“The benefits can last beyond the event itself when a meeting leads to a purchase order, a distribution agreement or a new investment,” he said.
Hajiji encouraged exhibitors to make full use of the event to engage with potential buyers, exchange ideas and establish strategic partnerships.
“May ‘Across Markets, Beyond Borders’ inspire Sabah’s entrepreneurs to reach further with confidence.
“Congratulations to the organising committee and all partners on BIGSABAH Sale 2026. I wish everyone a productive and successful event,” he said.
