KOTA KINABALU: Sabah must balance economic development with environmental protection and strengthen climate resilience to ensure sustainable growth, says chief minister Hajiji Noor.
Hajiji said coastal cities, which serve as hubs for trade, tourism and other economic activities, faced growing risks from rising sea levels, extreme weather, and pollution.
“With proper planning and close cooperation, we can develop safer, cleaner and more resilient cities for future generations,” he said in a speech read by assistant chief minister Joniston Bangkuai at the opening of the Kota Kinabalu International Mayor’s Dialogue 2026 here today.
The event brings together participants from eight countries and 15 cities, including representatives from Indonesia, South Korea and the US.
Hajiji said climate change considerations must be integrated into urban management, including drainage, sanitation, flood control, and the conservation of mangroves and rivers.
This would require better access to climate financing, stronger public-private partnerships and greater knowledge-sharing between cities to support green infrastructure projects and improve climate resilience.
He said Sabah’s waters sustain livelihoods, food security, and various maritime industries, making their protection crucial to long-term economic sustainability.
The state is also part of the Coral Triangle, one of the world’s richest marine biodiversity regions.
Hajiji said the state government’s commitment to balancing conservation and economic development was reflected in the Tun Mustapha Park, which protects marine ecosystems while supporting local communities.
The Sabah Blue Economy agenda also offers opportunities for sustainable growth in fisheries, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, coastal and island tourism, and logistics, he said, adding that these activities must be developed responsibly.
He said the agenda aligned with the Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 development plan for 2026-2030, which focusses on strengthening income sources and improving public welfare.
It also complemented the Sabah Biotechnology Action Plan 2024-2034, which links biodiversity conservation with socio-economic development.
Hajiji also commended Kota Kinabalu City Hall for advancing its Smart City agenda through technologies such as artificial intelligence, digital twins, geospatial tools, and urban data platforms.
He said these technologies could improve early flood warning systems, land-use planning and public service delivery.
“However, digital transformation must remain people-centred, transparent and accountable,” he said.