Sabah consumer group hails PM Anwar’s support for new Indian Consulate in Kota Kinabalu

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 12): The Malaysia Consumers Foundation (YPNM) Sabah has welcomed and expressed strong support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s backing of the Indian government’s decision to establish a new consulate in Kota Kinabalu.

YPNM Sabah chairman David Chan described the development as a significant milestone that reflects the Prime Minister’s commitment to prioritising Sabah’s economic growth and strengthening its international engagement.

“The establishment of an Indian Consulate in Sabah is not merely a diplomatic expansion, but a strategic economic catalyst that can enhance bilateral trade, investment flows, industrial cooperation, tourism development and people-to-people ties between Sabah and India,” Chan said in a statement.

He noted that as one of the world’s fastest growing major economies, India presents vast opportunities for Sabah in manufacturing and industrial development, technology and the digital economy, renewable energy cooperation, agriculture and food security, as well as tourism and education exchange.

Chan added that the presence of an Indian Consulate in Kota Kinabalu is expected to attract more Indian investors to Sabah, encourage joint ventures and industrial expansion, create job opportunities for Sabahan youths, and facilitate smoother business processes and trade documentation.

He also emphasised that the move would enhance Sabah’s position as a regional economic gateway in Borneo.

“This initiative demonstrates that Sabah is no longer on the periphery but is increasingly becoming a focal point in Malaysia’s international diplomacy and economic strategy,” he said.

YPNM Sabah views the move as a forward-looking vision by the Prime Minister, signalling strong confidence in Sabah’s economic potential and strategic importance within the federation.

The foundation also described the development as meaningful in conjunction with Malaysia’s continued progress since independence, strengthening Sabah’s global connectivity and economic resilience.

Chan expressed appreciation to the Prime Minister for prioritising Sabah’s economic development and opening new doors of opportunity for Sabahan businesses and industries.

“YPNM stands ready to support initiatives that promote sustainable growth, job creation and consumer prosperity in the state,” he added.