KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor is confident that the RM4.2 billion Jesselton Docklands project at the City’s waterfront will be a true game-changer for Sabah’s economy.
The development of a 35-acre prime port-side land, also known as the old Kota KinabaluPort, will catalyse job creation, attract investments, stimulate tourism, and generate positive ripple effects across various sectors, from construction to retail, food and beverage, and local services, he said.
“It is set to transform the City’s waterfront into a modern, vibrant, and sustainable urban one. The groundbreaking of Jesselton Docklands signifies yet another milestone in the ongoing transformation of Kota Kinabalu’s historic waterfront,” he said during the project’s groundbreaking ceremony at the Jesselton Docklands Live Lab here today.Finance Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun delivered his speech.
“I would like to commend Suria Capital Holdings Berhad, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd, for its unwavering commitment and strategic foresight in unlocking the potential of this iconic port site.
“Since the relocation of container operations to Sapangar Bay in 2007, Suria has remained dedicated to harnessing the immense opportunities presented by this waterfront.
The company has played a pivotal role in reshaping the identity of our capital city. “What was once a working port is now evolving into a thriving hub for trade, tourism, culture, and lifestyle. Syabas!” he said.
Hajiji noted that the transformation also included the relocation of the main passenger terminal to the South Jetty interim terminal, paving the way for a state-of-the-art, international-standard ferry terminal.
“This new facility will undoubtedly enhance comfort, safety, and efficiency for travellers, while complementing the dedicated International Cruise Terminal envisioned under the Jesselton Docklands master plan,” he said.
The Chief Minister said these enhancements will firmly position Kota Kinabalu on the global map as a premier cruise and ferry gateway, further solidifying our reputation as a top-tier tourism destination.
The Jesselton Docklands project, developed in partnership with BEDI Development, will feature, among others, a dedicated international cruise terminal, hotels, residences, cultural precincts, and commercial zones.
The iconic waterfront’s evolution would also be propelled as Suria is advancing the second phase of its joint venture with SBC Corporation Berhad, the Jesselton Quay development.
Collectively, these landmark initiatives will give rise to a vibrant, contemporary, and globally connected waterfront city, seamlessly complemented by signature assets such as the Sabah International Convention Centre, the Kota Kinabalu Convention Centre, and the future International Cruise Terminal, he said.
Hajiji said the collaboration between a government-linked company, such as Suria, and the private sector exemplifies the very essence of public-private partnership, where state assets and private capital converge to drive sustainable and impactful growth.
At the same time, he said the project was also in line with the State Government’s aspirations under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan, particularly its strategic thrusts of economic growth, sustainability, and social inclusivity.
In another note, Hajiji commended BEDI Development and Suria for their contribution of RM100,000 each for relief efforts following the recent flood and natural disaster.-pr/BNN
