Global Uncertainty Deepens: Sabah Must Act Now to Build Resilient, Value-Driven Economy, Says Luyang Assemblyman
Luyang assemblyman Samuel Wong has called on the Sabah government to act decisively in the face of growing global economic uncertainty, warning that ongoing geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and emerging global price wars could have long-term consequences on the state’s economy if proactive measures are not taken.
He said that the current global environment is no longer a temporary phase but a structural shift, as major economies increase protection of domestic industries while excess production is pushed into global markets, driving prices down.
“Instability is becoming the new normal. Countries are protecting their industries, excess supply is entering international markets, and price competition is intensifying across sectors from manufacturing to food products,” he said.
Wong stressed that Sabah cannot afford to remain passive in such an environment and must move swiftly to strengthen its economic resilience.
“Sabah cannot wait. We must act with urgency and clarity,” he said.
He pointed out that Sabah possesses strong fundamentals, particularly in natural resources and agriculture, which should be fully leveraged to build a more sustainable and competitive economy.
“For example, Sabah exports large volumes of palm oil, seafood, and agricultural produce, yet much of it is still in raw or minimally processed form. Instead of exporting raw fish, we should be developing seafood processing industries. Instead of exporting crude palm oil, we should be expanding into higher-value downstream products,” he said.
“In terms of natural resources, Sabah is also rich in timber, oil and gas, and minerals. However, much of these resources are still exported in raw or semi-processed form. We should be exploring downstream activities such as engineered wood products, furniture manufacturing, petrochemical-based industries, and value-added mineral processing to capture greater economic value locally,” he added.
Wong emphasized that Sabah must shift away from competing purely on low prices and instead focus on building value through downstream industries.
“We cannot win by competing on low prices alone. We must win by building value,” he added.
He said developing downstream industries such as food processing, cold chain logistics, and agro-based manufacturing, alongside resource-based industries would not only enhance economic resilience but also create higher quality job opportunities for Sabahans.
“At the same time, this will reduce our reliance on importing processed goods that could otherwise be produced locally,” he said.
“By accelerating downstream industries and strengthening our resource-based sectors, we can stimulate our local economy, empower SMEs, and nurture a new generation of Sabah entrepreneurs. This will create more quality jobs, expand business opportunities across the value chain, and build a more dynamic and self-sustaining domestic economy for Sabah,” he said.
Wong also raised concerns over Sabah’s continued reliance on imports, particularly in essential goods and food supply, noting that this exposes the state to external shocks amid global price volatility.
“For instance, fluctuations in global prices of imported food, including meat and basic food items, can immediately impact local businesses and consumers. When global prices rise or supply is disrupted, Sabah feels the impact directly,” he said.
“In a time of global price wars, we cannot allow our local economy and businesses to be dictated entirely by international market forces,” he added.
He stressed that food security must be treated as a top priority, calling for stronger and more coordinated efforts to boost local production and ensure long-term stability.
“This includes strengthening local agriculture, supporting farmers, and ensuring we have sufficient domestic supply of essential food items,” he said.
Wong urged the Sabah government to remain alert and proactive, warning against delays in policy response.
“This is not the time for complacency. The global challenges we face today may persist for years, and their impact on Sabah will be significant if we are not prepared,” he said.
While acknowledging that future uncertainties cannot be fully predicted, Wong stressed the importance of preparation.
“We may not know exactly what lies ahead, but we must be ready. Our responsibility is to build a resilient economy, strengthen our industrial base, secure our food systems, and protect the future of our people,” he said.
“Because when difficult times come, and they will, Sabah must be ready, not struggling,” he added.
YB Samuel Wong
Luyang State Assemblyman
