KOTA KINABALU: Sabah's investment task force has managed to expedite the investment processes, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He added that the state has taken proactive steps by establishing the task force to provide comprehensive support, guidance and a conducive environment for investors to thrive and succeed.
In the case of the Kibing Group venture, he said the task force had expedited the factory's operational commencement to under 24 months since the initial agreement was signed in January 2022.
"This achievement underscores the dedicated efforts of the task force, tirelessly working in synergy with various government departments and agencies to transform this investment into a reality here in Sabah.
"I wish to emphasise the state government's commitment to facilitate investments into Sabah. We are resolute in our mission to create an environment that attracts more investors, such as this Kibing venture to Sabah.
"These investments are not just about numbers on a financial ledger. They are about creating employment, fostering innovation and improving the lives of our people," he said during the opening of the multi-billion ringgit Sabah Kibing Solar New Materials (M) Sdn Bhd Factory at the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park near here.
Hajiji added that the high-impact investment venture was an example of what can be achieved when the government, private sector and the community unite with a shared vision.
He said it was also the result of collective efforts in the form of economic development and employment opportunities for the benefit of Sabah and the people.
"With an impressive annual production capacity of 440,000 tons of solar glass, Sabah has now positioned itself as one of the prominent players in Malaysia's solar glass manufacturing industry, and we are poised to make significant contributions to the renewable energy sector.
"This achievement not only promises economic growth but also underscores our commitment to sustainability and green technology," he said.
The venture also created job opportunities, with 1,100, or more than 80 per cent of its 1,300 workers, being Sabahans.