Sabah SMEs poised for global expansion, says minister

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 27): Sabah’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are well-positioned to expand beyond the state and compete confidently at the global level, said State Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick.

Speaking at the ‘SME Sabah Chinese New Year Gala Dinner 2026’ at Port View Palace Hall, Hakka Hall here on Thursday, he said the ministry is intensifying efforts to strengthen market access and brand visibility for Sabah-made products.

Ewon said the ministry is working closely with AEON Mall to promote products from 20 Sabah entrepreneurs across AEON outlets nationwide, providing structured retail exposure and reinforcing brand presence.

“With the right partnerships, preparation and market access, local SMEs are well positioned to expand beyond our borders and compete confidently at the global level,” he said.

He revealed that the ministry is expected to participate in 13 international expos in 2026, targeting potential sales value of RM80 million.

Among the expos scheduled between March and June are FHA–Food & Beverage in Singapore, Thaifex Anuga Asia in Thailand, and Seoul Food & Hotel in the Republic of Korea.

“Sabah-based SMEs are encouraged to participate in these expos, which provide strategic platforms for market exposure, business matching, and export opportunities,” he said.

Addressing logistics challenges, Ewon acknowledged congestion issues at the Sepanggar Bay Container Port that have affected state logistics movements.

He said the Sabah State Cabinet approved a proposed Interim Action Plan on Feb 4, 2026 to address congestion at the port while the ongoing expansion project is being completed.

Ewon added that the ministry will continue enhancing the ‘Anugerah Kecemerlangan Industri Sabah’ (Akis), describing it as more than just an award but a recognition framework highlighting innovation, competitiveness, sustainability and business resilience within the SME community.

“These initiatives are designed not to create dependency, but to empower SMEs to grow stronger and compete with confidence,” he said, while acknowledging the important role of women entrepreneurs in the state’s economy.

“Women-led businesses contribute resilience, discipline, and long-term vision, strengthening families, communities and the broader economic ecosystem,” he added.

As a sign of continued partnership and support, Ewon announced a RM20,000 contribution to the SME Association of Sabah to support the gala dinner and the ongoing efforts of its Women Entrepreneur Bureau.

“This contribution represents our commitment to walk together with SME Sabah – to listen, collaborate and build a stronger SME ecosystem in the state,” he said.

He emphasised that Sabah’s progress depends on collective effort.

“The government cannot do everything alone. Businesses cannot grow in isolation and associations cannot function without active members.

“But when we move together like the galloping horse in tonight’s theme – with speed, direction and unity, we can achieve remarkable results,” he said.