Latest news with #Malaysia-ChinaChamberofCommerce
Borneo Post
14-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
China content creator champions Sabah's cultural heritage as economic asset
Angelina Zhang KOTA KINABALU (July 14): Sabah boasts a rich and enduring cultural heritage, shaped by the languages, beliefs, craftsmanship, and life wisdom of over a hundred ethnic groups. This diversity not only highlights the state's inclusive cultural charm but also holds immense social value and economic potential. Angelina Zhang Miao, Council member of the Women Entrepreneurs Committee of the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah and a content creator from China who has been living in Sabah for many years, shared that she has been deeply touched by the diversity and authenticity of Sabah's cultural landscape. 'As a Chinese national who has lived in Sabah for a long time, I've come to deeply appreciate how this land treasures and preserves Chinese traditional culture,' she said. 'From temple fairs and festivals to calligraphy, lion dances, food, and language, the Chinese community in Sabah has retained their cultural roots with such completeness that even as a 'foreigner,' I feel a deep sense of familiarity and emotion.' Zhang expressed her gratitude to MCCC Sabah President Datuk Dexter Lau for the opportunity to become a Council member of WEC this year. To her, this is not only a shift in personal identity but also a symbol of the deepening and softening cultural and economic ties between China and Malaysia on a people-to-people level. 'I hope that through my dual identity, I can introduce Sabah — a land with breathtaking scenery and culture as its bridge — to the world in a gentle yet powerful way,' she said. 'Culture is Sabah's most heartfelt invitation to the world, and I'm committed to using my creative work to help write the next chapter of that story.' Her remarks came in response to recent statements by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who reiterated the state government's commitment to protecting Sabah's rich and unique cultural heritage. He emphasized continued support for ethnic organizations in preserving their customs, arts and cultural affairs — essential to building a more inclusive and confident Sabah. Beyond Chinese culture, Zhang has also immersed herself in learning about the traditions of Sabah's many indigenous groups. 'Sabah's native cultures are truly unique. They don't just live in museums or promotional videos — they are alive in people's daily lives,' she said, describing this 'living culture' as one of the state's most valuable intangible assets and a natural source of soft power. 'Culture isn't just a label — it's a form of warmth,' she said. 'Sabah's beauty goes beyond its mountains and seas. It's a fusion of human stories and emotional depth. If we can package our natural landscapes together with our cultural richness, we'll have a cultural identity that can shine on the global stage.' As a veteran in the new media industry, Zhang believes that cultural communication must evolve with the times. In her view, Sabah has unique potential to develop a model that integrates culture, content and tourism, but success hinges on using contemporary language and platforms to tell and share these local stories in an engaging way. 'I'm more than willing to use images, words, and social media to share Sabah's cultural charm, its scenic beauty, culinary delights, and human warmth with a wider Chinese and international audience,' she said. She noted that many local cultural groups, art workshops, and craft brands in Sabah are already leveraging e-commerce and digital platforms to transform traditional crafts into marketable and experiential products — the first steps toward true cultural monetization. 'Culture should not only be seen — it should be something that people can take part in, build businesses around, and co-create together,' she said. 'This approach will not only foster youth employment and cultural entrepreneurship but also help Sabah stand out in the international cultural tourism market — all without compromising its cultural integrity.'
Daily Express
10-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce lauds government move on localisation of Oil and Gas Services and Equipment sector
Published on: Thursday, July 10, 2025 Published on: Thu, Jul 10, 2025 Text Size: Janice Tan Wan Peng encourages Sabahans to build their skills, take hold of local opportunities, and considers ways for overseas talent to return and take part in Sabah's progress. Kota Kinabalu: With local employment opportunities on the rise, there is little reason for Sabah's talent to leave home. Under the leadership of President Datuk Dexter Lau, the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah expresses full support for the Sabah state government's recent collaboration with national oil company Petronas and industry partners to promote localisation in the Oil and Gas Services and Equipment (OGSE) sector, particularly in employment and contract participation. The Chamber welcomes the government's commitment to developing local talent and ensuring long-term, sustainable use of resources. It also believes such localisation efforts should not be confined to the oil and gas industry, but extended across all sectors to benefit more Sabahans. Deputy Secretary-General of the MCCC Sabah Women Entrepreneurs Committee Janice Tan Wan Peng, said the government has continued to expand local job opportunities and offer platforms for skills training and development — presenting a valuable opportunity for Sabahans to showcase their potential. 'By seizing the moment, continuously improving themselves, and mastering new skills, locals can take on key roles and demonstrate the strength and resilience that define the people of Sabah.' She added that development opportunities linked to Sabah's resources and industries should remain in the hands of locals. Tan also acknowledged Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji's leadership in not awarding a recent controversial mining project to external parties — a decision that reflects strong protection of Sabah's interests and commitment to local-first principles. In addition, she highlighted the importance of policies that make it easier for overseas Sabahans to return — such as tax incentives, relocation support, and retraining programs — so they can contribute meaningfully to their home state. Although Sabah is blessed with abundant natural resources, Tan pointed out that equal attention should be given to sustainable management, environmental responsibility, and renewable energy. 'MCCC Sabah is ready to work alongside the government in advancing green policies, and we welcome opportunities to help member companies explore new directions in environmental innovation, circular economy, and clean energy.' Tan also mentioned that fair opportunities should be provided to local businesses — especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs) — in the development of resources and industrial supply chains. Practical policy frameworks and collaborative platforms can enhance local participation and drive stronger economic growth throughout Sabah. MCCC Sabah remains committed to working closely with the state government to support policy implementation and encourage meaningful business engagement — contributing toward a competitive, sustainable, and talent-driven Sabah. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
The Star
09-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Sabah businesses hail State Sales Tax Ordinance amendment for clarifying tax rules
Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce Sabah Women Entrepreneurs Committee vice chairman, Yong Hui Sun. KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah has commended the state government's decision to amend the State Sales Tax (SST) Ordinance, calling it a vital step toward creating a more transparent and investor-friendly business environment. The legislative amendment, tabled at the recent State Assembly sitting on Tuesday (July 8), aims to clarify taxation provisions, simplify appeals processes, and enhance enforcement. These changes, according to MCCC Sabah Women Entrepreneurs Committee vice chairman Yong Hui Sun, will significantly strengthen legal certainty for businesses operating in Sabah. She stressed that under the leadership of MCCC Sabah president Datuk Dexter Lau, the Chamber has consistently advocated for fair and practical policies that support business growth. 'Unclear rules and inconsistent enforcement raise operating costs and erode investor confidence. 'The government's efforts to provide clearer tax guidelines and strengthen appeal mechanisms will make Sabah a more competitive and attractive destination for investment,' she said in a statement on Wednesday. She added that a fair and transparent taxation system is a strategic economic tool, particularly as Sabah competes for regional investment. 'We fully support Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun's focus on eliminating grey areas. Legal certainty does not just help tax officers, as it also gives businesses the confidence to invest long-term,' she said. The Chamber noted that the amendment reflects the state government's willingness to listen to business concerns and to foster constructive policy dialogue, which she described as a sign of healthy governance. Yong also highlighted the importance of engagement and follow-through, calling for the government to conduct more training for enforcement officers and to organise briefings and dialogue sessions to help the business community understand and implement the changes. 'We have seen before how well-meaning laws can fall short if enforcement is uneven or the rules are not well communicated. For small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and women entrepreneurs, predictability in taxation is critical. Ambiguity often hurts smaller businesses the most,' she pointed out. The Chamber sees the move not just as a legal improvement but as a broader signal of the state's commitment to building a competitive and inclusive economic ecosystem. 'Only with fair and transparent systems can businesses feel secure about investing in Sabah's future. 'When the government and civil society work hand in hand, we can push Sabah toward sustainable and high-quality growth,' Yong said.
Daily Express
05-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
MCCC warns against politicising court cases
Published on: Saturday, July 05, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jul 05, 2025 By: Noor Zafira Zayn Text Size: KOTA kINABALU: The Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah has warned that politicising court cases risks undermining investor confidence and damaging Sabah's economic reputation. Its Deputy Director of Trade Affairs, Brian Wong (pic), urged political leaders, the media and the public to exercise restraint and avoid speculation on judicial matters, especially cases still pending in court. Advertisement He said in a statement on Saturday that public discourse must respect the independence of enforcement authorities and the judiciary to ensure continued trust in Sabah's governance. Wong stressed that politically charged narratives have real-world consequences, potentially deterring investors and weakening confidence in the state's economic environment. He also highlighted the seriousness of the ongoing case involving key institutions, calling for calm and respect for due process to safeguard Sabah's stability and reputation. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
05-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Chicken rice chain hails Sabah government's poultry decision
Published on: Saturday, July 05, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jul 05, 2025 Text Size: Hon said if Sabah's poultry industry could develop in a large-scale, standardised, and Halal-compliant manner, it would not only meet the growing demands of local Muslim consumers but also position Sabah for Asean and Middle Eastern markets. Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Government's decision to position poultry farming as a core pillar of its agricultural revolution reflects both foresight and firm commitment to food security. This initiative also brings renewed hope and opportunities for local food industry players, said the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah. MCCC has been actively promoting the development of the local agricultural value chain and food production sector. Advertisement Committee member and founder of the A1 Chicken Rice restaurant chain, Benny Hon Fook Peng, said the vision outlined by State Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industries Minister Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan to make Sabah the largest poultry-producing State is a strategically significant move. It would not only enhance Sabah's food security but also offer broad and long-term development potential for local F&B operators and rural communities. 'As players in the F&B sector, we've long struggled with volatile costs, inconsistent supply and heavy reliance on external sources. 'This policy direction is expected to boost local poultry supply, encourage more stable pricing mechanisms, and build a more resilient supply chain,' Hon said. He noted that consistent supply and quality of chicken meat are critical factors for the sustainability of chicken rice businesses. 'As a local chicken rice operator in Sabah, if we can obtain a steady supply of high-quality poultry – especially meat that meets Halal certification standards – we'll be able to maintain food quality and pricing while better serving a diverse customer base. 'Chicken rice may seem like a humble dish, but behind it lies the livelihood of countless business owners and daily consumers. What we serve is not just a meal – it is job creation, community economic stimulation, Halal food culture promotion, and a reflection of Sabah's warm and hospitable spirit.' Hon said if Sabah's poultry industry could develop in a large-scale, standardised, and Halal-compliant manner, it would not only meet the growing demands of local Muslim consumers but also position Sabah for Asean and Middle Eastern markets. 'It will create a new economic ecosystem around poultry farming including processing, cold-chain logistics, feed production, packaging, veterinary services, and more. As a committee member of MCCC Sabah, he also urged the Government to maintain close dialogue with industry players and business chambers when rolling out policies. 'For policies to take root, they must be grounded in reality. 'We hope the government will address the operational challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and introduce support such as financing assistance, smallholder training, Halal certification guidance, market linkage platforms, and logistics subsidies ensuring benefits at all levels.' He said MCCC Sabah will continue to play its role as a bridge, helping member companies connect with government resources, training opportunities, and Halal compliance standards. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
