Sabah targets industrial growth as Plumbing Asia 2026 opens in KK

KOTA KINABALU (April 25): Sabah is positioning itself as a rising industrial growth region, by expanding infrastructure and increasing demand for modern engineering solutions, said State Assistant Minister of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Transport Datuk Dr Jonnybone J. Kurum.

Officiating the two-day Plumbing Asia 2026 Conference and Expo at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here, he said the event reflects both industry progress and Malaysia’s broader industrial progress.

“This event marks not only a significant milestone for the industry, but also reflects the continued advancement of Malaysia’s plumbing and related industrial sectors,” he said.

Jonnybone said plumbing systems, water supply and drainage infrastructure are now essential components of modern development across manufacturing, construction, energy and large-scale infrastructure sectors.

He described the expo as a strategic platform that goes beyond showcasing products, serving instead as a bridge for industry connectivity and partnerships.

He added that Sabah is steadily developing a more dynamic industrial ecosystem, driven by infrastructure expansion and regional development efforts.

“We are witnessing a clear and growing trend. The demand for efficient plumbing systems, advanced drainage solutions and professional engineering services continues to rise,” he said.

He urged industry players to seize the opportunity to invest in advanced technologies and integrate into regional supply chains and high-value infrastructure projects.

“We must not only participate in development, but strive to take a leading role in this wave of industrial transformation,” he added.

Meanwhile, organising chairman Teo Seng Peng said the expo has drawn strong international participation, reflecting its growing regional significance.

Among the overseas delegates were representatives from China, including the Beijing Water Authority, Beijing Water Works, XingTai Road & Bridge Construction Group, as well as delegations from Shanxi Province and the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.

Also present were representatives from Singapore, including the Singapore Plumbing Society, alongside participants from Peninsular Malaysia such as the Master Plumber Association Malaysia, Negeri Sembilan Plumber Association and Perak Plumber’s Association, as well as delegates from across the BIMP-EAGA region.

Teo said the event marks a shift in the local association’s role, evolving into a more global-facing platform.

“We are no longer a traditional trade association. We may be modest, but we are big in vision,” he said.

He added that Plumbing Asia 2026 serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, investment discussions and regional cooperation.

“Our message is clear: Sabah is open for business, and we are ready to lead,” he said.