KUDAT: In a significant meeting with the Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Seri
Panglima Hajiji Mohd Noor, Member of Parliament for Kudat, Dato’ Verdon Bahanda, brought forth pressing concerns affecting his constituency. Central to the discussion were the adverse effects of corporate encroachment on customary lands in the Bengkoka and Pitas regions.
These activities have disrupted the lives of local native communities, who depend on these lands for their traditional practices and livelihoods. The Chief Minister has assured his commitment to resolving these land disputes promptly.
Dato’ Verdon also renewed the call for the long-delayed Kudat Port development project.
Initially proposed a decade ago, the project aims to upgrade Kudat Port into an international seaport and establish a larger industrial park to enhance the region’s industrial capabilities.
This development is crucial for overcoming the current limitations faced by the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) and for spurring further industrial growth in the area.
In a bid to further stimulate economic progress, Dato’ Verdon proposed the establishment of a new special economic zone in Kudat. This initiative seeks to facilitate land acquisition
through direct agreements between landowners, whether holding Native Title or Country
Lease, and investors, thereby reducing the need for extensive government intervention. By
promoting direct negotiations among stakeholders, the proposal aims to drive development
while safeguarding the native land rights and Kudat communities in general.
The initiative is expected to boost local incomes, alleviate economic pressures on Kudat constituents, and enhance state revenue. The Chief Minister expressed his support for this approach, emphasising Kudat’s strategic location along the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea, making it ideal for a range of blue and green economy industries.
The proposed economic zone is projected to invigorate various sectors in Kudat, potentially
reducing poverty and accelerating regional development. Dato’ Verdon reiterated his commitment to transparency and urged his constituents to engage directly with him,
dismissing any reliance on unfounded rumors. He reiterated his full support to the Chief
Minister and his able State Cabinet.
In closing, Dato’ Verdon commended the Chief Minister for his unwavering commitment to
the state’s economic advancement and for seriously considering these proposals. He
expressed confidence that with the Chief Minister’s support, substantial progress will be
made in addressing the challenges and promoting economic growth in Sabah’s northern
region.-pr/BNN
