Hajiji (third left) accompanying Anwar during the launch gimmick of the Sabah Southern Madani Project at the Lundayeh Cultural Association Complex in Sipitang on Saturday.
SIPITANG (June 13): The Sabah Southern Madani Link project is set to become a key foundation for Sabah’s long-term economic transformation by strengthening the state’s electricity supply system and enabling future industrial growth.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said the project is not merely an electricity transmission infrastructure development, but a strategic investment that will underpin Sabah’s efforts to expand its economy into high-value and technology-driven sectors.
He said a stable and reliable power supply is essential to support strategic industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, downstream processing, tourism, modern agriculture, digital data centres and other technology-based sectors.
“This project is crucial in bringing Sabah into its next phase of development, as strategic sectors such as manufacturing, oil and gas, downstream processing, tourism, modern agriculture, digital data centres and technology-based industries will benefit from a stable, sufficient and high-quality energy supply.
“Therefore, energy sector development is no longer solely about meeting current needs, but has become the foundation for the state’s future planning,” he said during the launch of the Sabah Southern Madani Link Project, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, at the Lundayeh Cultural Association Complex here.
Hajiji said the project will strengthen the state’s electricity transmission network, improve grid stability and reduce the risk of power disruptions that could affect economic activities and public wellbeing.
He said the federal government-approved project reflects continued commitment to supporting Sabah’s development agenda and improving essential infrastructure for the people.
He added that the initiative also demonstrates strong federal-state cooperation in ensuring a more resilient and reliable electricity supply system.
Hajiji also highlighted the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan (SE-RAMP) 2040, which guides the state’s energy development based on three pillars — energy security, equitable access and sustainability.
He said Sabah has strong potential to emerge as a regional green energy hub, supported by hydro resources, solar energy potential and biomass capacity.
“With abundant hydro resources, high solar irradiation throughout the year and extensive biomass potential, Sabah is strategically positioned to lead clean energy development in the region.
“This potential will not only attract high-value investments but also create new economic opportunities and generate more jobs for the people,” he said.
He added that strong energy infrastructure is essential to support major industrial zones such as Sipitang Oil and Gas Industrial Park (SOGIP), Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) and Palm Oil Industrial Cluster (POIC) Lahad Datu.
Hajiji expressed appreciation to the Prime Minister and all parties involved in the implementation of the project, describing it as a cornerstone for Sabah’s future development.
