KOTA KINABALU: The recent customs regulation, which restricts the amount of duty-free beer tourists can carry off the island, could gravely affect Labuan’s already struggling economy, warns Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
“Labuan’s duty-free status is a vital catalyst for tourism and local commerce. Abrupt regulatory changes, like limiting tourists to just four cans of beer, could potentially jeopardise the island’s economy.
“While the Federal Government’s role is to safeguard and advance Labuan’s economy, as public servants, we are obliged to voice our concerns over potential errors or opportunities for improvement.
“In Parliament, I have discussed these issues, championing for equitable and inclusive economic decision-making processes that consider the unique circumstances of each region,” he said in a statement today (5 July 2023).
He implored the Federal Government to foster open and transparent dialogue with the residents of Labuan, reassess the recent measures, and provide unambiguous updates on the proposed bridge’s progress.
Jeffrey who is also the Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) President, anticipates swift actions from the Labuan Corporation, under the stewardship of Tan Sri Anifah Aman, to tackle these challenges and guide Labuan towards economic recovery.
“As the people’s representatives, we must promote prosperity and welfare for all Malaysians, including the residents of Labuan. I stand alongside them in their quest for effective and enduring economic strategies that respect their distinct status.
“Even though Labuan is a Federal Territory and doesn’t have representation in the Sabah State Assembly, our shared history and geographical closeness underscore the significance of this issue for us in Sabah,” he said.
On another note, Jeffrey called on the federal government to share updates on the proposed bridge project that will connect mainland Sabah and Labuan.
“Even if this issue falls outside the Sabah Government’s jurisdiction, it is a topic of substantial public interest, frequently spotlighted during election cycles. A bridge could be an instrumental infrastructure project that bolsters Labuan’s connectivity and economic dynamism,” he said.-pr/BNN
