Frankie (center in red) leads the singing at the dinner.
KOTA KINABALU (Feb 9): The year 2025 will be a critical year for international trade, said Sabah China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC) president Datuk Frankie Liew.
“We have already witnessed major developments, such as Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency, bringing with it a series of new international policies. Of particular concern is his decision to impose higher tariffs on China, Canada and Mexico, escalating the ongoing trade war.
“These measures will inevitably disrupt global supply chains and create new economic uncertainties. Malaysia, which has always maintained a neutral and non-aligned stance, may face greater challenges ahead,” he said.
From left: Datuk Mary Ling, Chin Hui Zhi, Lynette Ho, Datuk Eliza Goh, Datin Ang, Datuk Alan Ang and Penelope Abu Husin at the Chinese New Year Fellowship Dinner.
Speaking at the Chinese New Year Fellowship Dinner organised by SCCC on Saturday, Liew hoped that the Federal and Sabah state governments will exercise wisdom and strategic leadership to guide Malaysia and Sabah through these turbulent times.
Despite the current global instability and looming challenges, he said crises often come with opportunities.
Frankie (fifth right), Phoong (fourth right) and guests making Chinese New Year greeting at the fellowship dinner.
Liew said the past few years of trade wars have reshaped global investment trends, positioning Malaysia as an emerging hub for technology and data centers in Southeast Asia. At the same time, Sabah has begun attracting major investments from China, South Korea, and other nations.
“For 51 years, China has been Malaysia’s largest and most reliable trading partner. Our two nations share brotherly ties, having supported each other through various global crises, including the trade war and the Covid-19 pandemic. We have not only overcome challenges together but have also benefited tremendously from Chinese investments, technology, and industrial capacity transfers,” he said.
Liew firmly believes that if we strengthen our promotional efforts and government support, Sabah can host more international conferences and exhibitions to enhance its global presence. At the same time, we should actively promote the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program to attract high-quality foreign investors and skilled professionals, thereby diversifying Sabah’s economy and accelerating economic growth.
While we strive for greater economic achievements, he said we must not overlook the fundamental infrastructure issues in Sabah.
According to Liew, recently, Sabah had witnessed a a series of unfortunate incidents, including frequent power outages, severe flooding and water disruptions and damaged roads full of potholes, endangering public safety. These challenges not only impact local communities but also undermine investor confidence.
Additionally, Kota Kinabalu International Airport has now been overtaken by Penang as Malaysia’s second busiest airport.
“Therefore, I sincerely hope that in 2025, Sabah’s infrastructure development will accelerate. This is not just about attracting foreign investments, but also about addressing critical livelihood concerns for our people,” he said.
Last year, SCCC accompanied Sabah’s Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship, Datuk Ginger Phoong on official visits to Jilin Province in China and Nusantara, the new capital of Indonesia. These visits resulted in the signing of multi-billion-ringgit cooperation projects, significantly increasing Sabah’s visibility on the global stage. More investors are now recognizing Sabah’s rich resources and strategic geographical advantages.
“During our visit to Nusantara, we witnessed massive infrastructure projects progressing rapidly. If Sabah does not keep up, we risk falling behind and losing potential economic benefits from Indonesia’s capital relocation. Instead of gaining opportunities, we may face increased competition for investments and talent,” said the SCCC president in his speech.
Moving forward, he said SCCC remains committed to collaborating with business associations and partners to enhance business matchmaking opportunities and facilitate more trade and investment ventures.
“Our goal is to ensure that our members, partners, and stakeholders all benefit from continued growth and prosperity,” he said.
In conclusion, he wishes for Malaysia — especially Sabah — to achieve diverse and inclusive economic growth, stronger regional collaboration with China and ASEAN nations and the establishment of a robust and sustainable international trade network.
The guests at the fellowship dinner were Phoong, Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin, political secretary to the Chief Minister, Datuk Dr Roland Chia, Tanjung Aru assemblyman Datuk Junz Wong, members of political parties, representatives from the China and Indonesia consulates as well as the business community.
Among the programmes held were face-reading, feng-shui talk, auction, wushu and lion dance performances.
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