The Forum 5 of the Malaysia (Sabah)-China Business Summit.
KOTA KINABALU (Nov 23): The Pan Borneo Highway will transform Sabah’s economy, according to a professional engineer.
Ir. Ts. KJ Tan, JP, said this at the Malaysia (Sabah)-China Business Summit Forum 5: “Enhancing Manufacturing, Transportation, and Logistics” held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here.
Tan presented the session titled “The Impact of the Pan Borneo Highway on Manufacturing, Transportation, and Logistics Development in Sabah”.
The forum which attracted numerous industry professionals and experts, focused on discussing the profound influence of this strategically significant infrastructure project on Sabah’s economic development.
During the forum, Tan highlighted that the Pan Borneo Highway spans 2,083 kilometers, serving as a vital link connecting East Malaysia, Brunei, and surrounding regions. The project not only enhances Sabah’s role in Malaysia’s national economic strategy but also lays the groundwork for regional integration by improving connectivity.
The forum provided an in-depth analysis of the primary challenges facing Sabah in these sectors:
• Manufacturing: Infrastructure inadequacies and supply chain management issues hinder industry growth.
• Transportation: High costs due to inefficient transport networks.
• Logistics: Low efficiency negatively impacts business competitiveness.
The highway brings transformative changes to Sabah through improved infrastructure, including:
• Manufacturing: Optimized supply chains, increased investment, and economic diversification.
• Transportation: Reduced travel time and costs, along with enhanced freight capacity.
• Logistics: Improved efficiency, better regional connectivity, and lower operating costs.
Tan emphasized the project’s commitment to sustainable development. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) were conducted to minimize environmental harm and protect biodiversity.
The construction respects indigenous cultural heritage and land rights, adhering strictly to relevant laws and regulations.
The forum concluded with a vision for the highway’s long-term impact, including fostering regional economic growth, enhancing integration between Sabah, Sarawak, and neighboring countries, and promoting community engagement and tourism development.
The highway is expected to unlock the tourism potential of remote areas, creating opportunities for eco-tourism and cultural tourism, while supporting conservation efforts. Through sustainable development and collaboration, the project will further solidify Sabah’s role in the national economy.
The forum underscored the transformative impact of the Pan Borneo Highway on Sabah’s economic development and provided a valuable platform for professionals in the manufacturing, transportation, and logistics sectors.
In his closing remarks, Tan stated, “The Pan Borneo Highway is a milestone for Sabah’s economic transformation. While challenges remain, through concerted efforts from all parties, it will undoubtedly inject new vitality into the regional economy.”
Tan is the Vice Chairman of the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM) Sabah Branch and the Secretary General of the Sabah China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC).
Holding a master’s degree from Imperial College London (ICL), Tan possesses extensive expertise in sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, and large-scale engineering projects. He has played a pivotal role in advancing the transformative Pan Borneo Highway project, significantly enhancing Sabah’s transportation and logistics network.
Beyond his engineering achievements, he actively advocates for incorporating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into infrastructure development.
His leadership in both academia and industry reflects a strong commitment to sustainable development, making him a key contributor to Sabah’s manufacturing and logistics growth.
