SCCC to strengthen Sabah–China economic ties in Year of the Horse

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 19): The Sabah–China Chamber of Commerce (SCCC) will continue to serve as a constructive platform and effective bridge for economic and trade cooperation between Sabah, Malaysia, and China in 2026.

The Chamber will actively support business exchanges, investment facilitation, trade promotion, and participation in international exhibitions and forums, with the objective of strengthening bilateral partnerships and supporting the growth of local enterprises.

SCCC president Datuk Frankie Liew who stated this in his Chinese New Year message, added the Chamber also looks forward to continued collaboration with the Federal Government of Malaysia and the Sabah State Government, as well as with relevant agencies and business associations.

“Through close cooperation, we aim to support policies and initiatives that promote economic growth, attract quality investments, create employment opportunities, and enhance the overall competitiveness of the business ecosystem.

Malaysia and China have long shared a relationship characterised by friendship, mutual trust, and constructive engagement. It is our firm belief that this partnership will continue to strengthen, contributing positively to regional stability, economic prosperity, and people-to-people ties,” he said.

On behalf of the Sabah–China Chamber of Commerce, Liew extends his sincere Chinese New Year greetings to all Malaysians, members of the business community, their Chinese compatriots, and friends from all sectors who have continuously supported the work of the Chamber. May the new year bring good health, harmony, peace, and prosperity to all.

According to him, in Chinese tradition, the Horse symbolises diligence, progress, resilience and success. The Year of the Horse encourages forward-looking action, decisive leadership, and perseverance in the pursuit of shared goals.

“As we enter 2026, it is timely for all stakeholders to remain united, adaptive, and committed to sustainable development amid a rapidly evolving global environment,” he said.

Liew added the global landscape continues to face significant challenges arising from geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and shifts in international trade. Nevertheless, Malaysia has maintained political stability and economic resilience through sound governance, a balanced foreign policy, and continued efforts in industrial upgrading, digital transformation, and structural reform.

The steady performance of the Malaysian ringgit reflects market confidence in the nation’s economic fundamentals and policy direction. At the regional level, economic cooperation between China and ASEAN continues to deepen, with increasing use of local currencies in bilateral trade, contributing to greater financial stability and reduced external risks.

He said Malaysia remains an important member of ASEAN, while China continues to be one of Malaysia’s key trading and investment partners. The longstanding relationship between Malaysia and China is founded on mutual trust, respect, and shared economic interests. Cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, finance, and technology continues to expand, generating tangible benefits for both nations.

As China’s financial markets progressively open and the internationalisation of the renminbi advances, he said greater capital flows into the Asian region are expected. Sabah is well positioned to benefit from these developments through its strategic location, rich resources, and commitment to a transparent and investor-friendly business environment.

In closing, he extends his best wishes to all for a successful and meaningful Year of the Horse.
May the nation enjoy continued stability and progress, and may businesses and communities prosper together in the year ahead.