KOTA KINABALU: SBH Kibing Solar New Energy (M) Sdn Bhd has signed a deal for a RM7.2 billion solar glass manufacturing plant in Kimanis.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the new investment, signed with two government-linked companies, was significant. He said it would boost economic growth for Sabah and create jobs for the local communities.
Hajiji oversaw the exchange of the sublease agreement between SBH Kibing and Fokasrama Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Sawit Kinabalu Group.
The sublease agreement will pave the way for the development of a state-of-the-art solar glass manufacturing plant, set to become one of the largest facilities of its kind in the region.
This development is part of SBH Kibing's plans to expand Sabah's renewable energy infrastructure, enhance its global solar energy market position and complement the China-based company's existing plant at the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP).
The new solar glass facility also highlights Kibing's commitment to renewable energy growth in Sabah and establishing a key manufacturing site in the state.
Representing Fokasrama Sdn Bhd was Sawit Kinabalu Group managing director and chief executive officer Datuk Victor Ationg, while chairman William Chen represented SBH Kibing Solar New Energy.
The second exchange of documents was for the Heads of Agreement between SBH Kibing Solar New Energy and Sabah Energy Corporation Sdn Bhd (SEC) to supply 45 million standard cubic feet per day of natural gas to support the new factory's operations.
As Sabah's primary natural gas provider, SEC continues to play an important role in driving regional economic growth through reliable and cleaner energy solutions.
Representing SEC was chief executive officer Datuk Adzmir Abd Rahman while deputy managing director Celine Li represented SBH Kibing Solar New Energy.
Present were state Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, SEC chairman Datuk Annuar Ayub, State Secretary Datuk Seri Haji Safar Untong and senior officials.
Hajiji later chaired the Sawit Kinabalu and Borneo Samudera board of directors' meeting.