KOTA KINABALU: SBH Kibing New Solar Energy's new investment worth RM7.2 billion is expected to create 5,000 job opportunities, said Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
The new investment project, which would be carried out in three phases, was inked between the Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Ministry and SBH Kibing New Solar Energy (M) Sdn Bhd.
Hajiji, who witnessed the signing, added that the company would build a new six-production line solar glass manufacturing plant in Kimanis, Papar.
He added the latest development proved that the state government's efforts to accelerate the growth of its industrial sector have been effective.
"The 'Sabah Investor-Friendly' initiative as outlined in the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya development plan has bolstered investors' confidence and attracted foreign companies to the state.
"The state government, through the Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Ministry, is dedicated to coordinating and facilitating this investment to ensure its successful implementation and to drive economic growth in the state," he said.
Present was Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe.
Kibing Group has already invested more than RM3 billion in the silica sand processing plant and solar glass manufacturing plant generating 1,800 jobs in Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP).
The company has already added a third production line to its existing facility in KKIP representing an additional investment estimated at RM700 million, creating approximately 600 additional job opportunities.
The SBH Kibing New Solar Energy (M) Sdn Bhd manufacturing plant currently produces 1,200 tons of solar glass daily, which will be doubled to 2,400 tons per day by this month.