KOTA KINABALU: Government agencies must cooperate with financial institutions, industry groups, and the private sector to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) address business challenges.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said SMEs are vital to Sabah because they create jobs and support 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, adding that digital tools can help businesses overcome distance.
“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 at the opening ceremony of the BIGSABAH Sale at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here today.
Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Ceasar Mandela Malakun delivered his speech.
Hajiji said events like the BIGSABAH Sale 2026, which brings together exhibitors from 12 countries and nine states in Malaysia, would definitely assist SMEs in growing their businesses.
He said Sabah’s position within the BIMP-EAGA region offers opportunities for trade with Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and the Philippines, 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.
The Chief Minister also hoped that exhibitors from abroad and Peninsular Malaysia would help build lasting trade relationships, distribution opportunities, and investment.
“We want to see that stronger business-to-business engagement can help our entrepreneurs move beyond showcasing products to securing partnerships that support long-term growth,” he said.
The Chief Minister said that as the State Government works toward four million arrivals in 2026 and prepares for Visit Sabah 2027, the priority must be to ensure that growth benefits local people.
“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 use this opportunity to meet buyers, exchange ideas and build 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.-pr/BNN
