Sabah is strengthening its position as a regional hub by leveraging business events to drive economic growth, investor confidence, and cross-border collaboration.
In a speech delivered by assistant minister Joniston Bangkuai at the 3rd International Business Events Forum (BE in Sabah) 2026, chief minister Hajiji Noor affirmed that the state remains focused on aligning the sector with its broader development agenda.
Hajiji noted that these gatherings are critical for facilitating high-level investment dialogues and connecting global expertise with local capabilities, directly benefiting SMEs, professionals, and emerging talent.
“Investor confidence is built on consistency, clarity and reliable execution,” Hajiji added, stressing that credible platforms such as BE in Sabah serve as a bridge between policy intent and on-the-ground delivery.
Sabah’s strategic location within South-east Asia and the wider Asia-Pacific region offers strong potential for regional cooperation, with shared economic interests and complementary strengths providing opportunities for strategic partnerships and long-term investment, he added.
The forum, held at the Sabah International Convention Centre, demonstrated the state’s readiness to host complex, large-scale international business engagements.
He also highlighted the role of the Sabah Convention Bureau, operating under the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, in creating a reliable interface for international business events by working closely with industry stakeholders.
Meanwhile, in her welcoming remarks, Rosmawati Haji Lasuki, the organising chairperson of BE in Sabah 2026 highlighted the forum’s evolution from an initial local initiative into a returning regional platform shaped by continuity, learning and trust.
