Sabah's Blue Economy Plan Considered for 2027 National Budget

Sabah's ambitious blue economy plan, focused on developing its vast marine and riverine resources, is under consideration for inclusion in Malaysia's 2027 National Budget. The initiative aims to unlock new economic avenues for the state by harnessing its rich natural assets.

Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan stated that discussions with relevant ministries are underway to integrate promising blue economy initiatives into the 2027 budget. "From the existing plans, we will discuss with the relevant ministries to include good initiatives into the 2027 Budget. Perhaps some proposals can be brought forward to future years as they form the core and basis of the blue economy," he said during a Budget 2027 engagement session in Tawau.

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From the existing plans, we will discuss with the relevant ministries to include good initiatives into the 2027 Budget. Perhaps some proposals can be brought forward to future years as they form the core and basis of the blue economy.

Sabah's potential extends beyond marine tourism, encompassing aquaculture, fisheries, and value-added seafood processing. The state is already seeing success with seaweed cultivation, with local produce being processed and exported to countries like China and the United Kingdom. Amir Hamzah emphasized the need to further develop the marine-based industry to process products locally, thereby increasing their market value.

The federal government is also examining infrastructure and financing needs to support industry players in expanding the blue economy sector. The input gathered from industry stakeholders during the Budget 2027 tour is crucial for identifying priorities and necessary initiatives. "We are receiving input from industry players to provide proposals for the 2027 Budget and initiatives that can catalyze this development. The Federal Government will continue to cooperate with the state government and relevant ministries to see how the proposed programs can be realized," Amir Hamzah added.

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We are receiving input from industry players to provide proposals for the 2027 Budget and initiatives that can catalyze this development. The Federal Government will continue to cooperate with the state government and relevant ministries to see how the proposed programs can be realized.