Sabah implements a Marine Spatial Planning Policy to unlock its blue economy potential, aligning with national goals and establishing a dedicated council for coordination.
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah state government is planning to implement a Marine Spatial Planning Policy to identify and develop the state’s blue economy potential.
Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman said the move aligns with the 13th Malaysia Plan, which identifies the blue economy as a key national strategy.
“Sabah has been selected as the National Blue Economy Hub in view of its vast marine resources,” he said.
He made the announcement in his address at the opening of the second meeting of the 17th Sabah State Legislative Assembly. The state government has drafted a Sabah Blue Economy vision based on five key components.
These include sustainable harvesting of living resources and the extraction of non-living resources. The vision also covers developing new resources, marine-based trade, and responses to marine health challenges.
A Sabah Blue Economy Council has been established to coordinate and implement the state’s strategic policies. A study and master plan for a Blue Economy Industrial Park in Kudat is currently underway.
The park is intended to support development based on a structured and sustainable blue economy concept. Meanwhile, Tun Musa said the state’s other priorities include developing an industry-needs-based curriculum.
The government remains committed to strengthening human capital through Technical and Vocational Education and Training. This aims to produce a skilled workforce aligned with industry requirements.
