Tawau free trade zone receives positive feedback

New Sabah Times
4th March, 2007

KOTA KINABALU: The business community and politicians alike are beaming following the disclosure that Tawau will be turned into a free trade zone in view of its strategic position for international trade.

Assistant Rural Development Minister Datuk Tawfiq Abu Bakar Titngan said that Tawau was a suitable and strategic site.

“As a big district, it is a gateway to two sides of two major countries,” he said of Tawau’s proximity to Kalimantan in Indonesia and South Philippines.

Tawfiq who is Apas assemblyman said that the effort by the Federal Government must be supported by all.

“I believe everyone is all behind the set up of the free trade zone,” he said.

On Friday, Finance Ministry Parliamentary secretary Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahya said that Tawau’s location near Indonesia’s border in Kalimantan and its proximity to southern Philippines made it an ideal gateway for international trade.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the Sabah Fisheries Marketing Berhad (SAFMA) jetty here, Dr Hilmi said that as Sabah did not have a free trade zone as yet, it was hoped that the Tawau free trade zone would further boost business activities in the state.

The free trade zone in Tawau would be set up as soon as possible, he said, adding that this was important before other countries set up their own nearby.

Tawfiq who is also Tawau Umno chief hoped that the groundwork would take place soon for the benefit of the rakyat especially Tawau folks.

“The local economy will be stimulated and economic spin-offs will be created,” he said.

Merotai assemblyman Datuk Liew Yun Fah also welcomed the move as it would augur well to the overall future development of Tawau.

“We are seeing a brighter future for the district due to the caring attitude of the Federal Government,” he said.

The Tawau Chinese Chamber of Commerce said that the district has been largely a palm oil producing district.

“If the free trade zone is implemented, many industries will come to Tawau and this will surely spur the growth of the district to a larger dimension.

“Every industry including the hospitability and food business will benefit from a free trade zone,” an official said.