Sipitang: A Promising Hub for Cross-Border Economic and Tourism Development

25 April 2025

SIPITANG: The strategic position of Sipitang, which borders Sarawak, Brunei Darussalam, and Sabah, presents significant potential for the area to be developed as an economic and tourism hub.

The Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing of Sabah, Datuk Isnin Aliasnih, stated that this geographical advantage places Sipitang on the right track for development as a key driver of the state's economic growth.

“The strategic location of Sipitang as a gateway for cross-border activities between Sarawak, Brunei Darussalam, and Sabah makes it one of the districts with great potential for development as an economic and tourism hub,” he remarked.

He made these comments while speaking at the Oath-Taking Ceremony and Presentation of Appointment Letters to Members of the Sipitang District Council for the 2025-2027 session at the Hilton Hotel in Kota Kinabalu on Monday (21 April).

During the ceremony, 17 individuals received their appointment letters as Members of the Sipitang District Council and will be responsible for helping to plan and implement development initiatives at the local level.

Isnin also urged all the new council members to carry out their responsibilities with dedication and commitment to ensure that all development plans are effectively executed.

He noted that Sipitang is not only rich in unique cultural heritage, such as the GATA Festival, but also boasts natural beauty and fertile agricultural produce.

“The combination of heritage, abundant natural resources, and strategic location makes Sipitang a district with immense potential for more aggressive development,” he stated.

According to Isnin, regional developments, particularly the relocation of Indonesia's capital to Kalimantan, are likely to have a direct impact on border areas like Sipitang, Kalabakan, and Nabawan.

He emphasised that this change should not be taken lightly as it is expected to stimulate rapid growth in cross-border economic activities.

In this context, he stressed the need for early preparations regarding infrastructure, border security, and logistical facilities to be prioritised.

“Our neighbouring country, Brunei Darussalam, has already constructed several Immigration, Customs, and Quarantine (CIQ) complexes in anticipation of increased movement,” he mentioned.

He added that Sabah should also adopt a similar approach to ensure it is not left behind in providing appropriate infrastructure and facilities for its people.

Isnin asserted that collaboration among all parties, including the government, relevant agencies, communities, and the private sector, is crucial for successfully achieving these development aspirations.

“With a unified spirit, we can elevate Sipitang to a higher level as a strategic economic hub in Sabah,” he concluded.

Also present were Sindumin State Assemblyman Datuk Dr Yusof Yacob; Sipitang Member of Parliament, Datuk Matbali Musah; District Officer and Chairman of the Sipitang District Council, Abdul Karim A. M. Zahari; Sipitang District Police Chief, Awang Anak Suanda; Executive Officer of the Sipitang District Council, Hamsad Abdul Wahid; and Representative Assistant Administrative Officer (Operations) from the Ministry of Local Government and Housing, Mohd Syahril Bakar.