Kota Kinabalu (Jan 7) - The Sabah Human Developmentand Empowerment Association (SAHDEA) takes note of the recent opinion article on another news platform, calling for the closure of Invest Sabah Berhad.
As a civil society organisationcommitted to good governance, accountability, and sustainable development,
SAHDEA recognises that public concerns regarding the use of taxpayers’ funds must always be taken seriously. Transparency and integrity are non-negotiable in public institutions, and calls for scrutiny should never be dismissed lightly.
However, SAHDEA believes that callsto immediately close Invest Sabah Berhad are premature, particularly at a time when new leadership has just been entrusted with the responsibility to reform and strengthen the institution.
“We must be careful not to dismantleinstitutions based solely on allegations, especially when corrective leadership has just been put in place,” said Arthur Erik, President of SAHDEA. “The appointment of YB Datuk Roger Chin presents an opportunity for a genuine reset. What Sabah needs now is firm oversight, clear performance expectations, and the political will to allow reforms to take effect — not hasty decisions that could harm long-term development and investor confidence.”
We are of the view that institutionsshould be reformed where weaknesses exist, not dismantled solely on the basis of allegations, especially in the absence of completed audits or official findings. Abrupt closure would risk undermining investor confidence, disrupt ongoing engagement efforts, and weaken Sabah’s long-term economic positioning.
In this regard, SAHDEA expresses itsconfidence that the newly appointed Chairman, YB Datuk Roger Chin, will bring renewed focus, discipline, and effectiveness to Invest Sabah Berhad. New leadership presents a crucial opportunity to reset governance standards, improve performance, and restore public trust.
SAHDEA therefore calls for:
1. Clear performance benchmarks andtimelines for Invest Sabah Berhad under its new leadership;
2. Independent and transparent reviewsof past operations where necessary; and
3. Regular public reporting to ensureaccountability and measurable outcomes.
SAHDEA stands for a constructive andforward-looking approach — one that safeguards public interest while allowing institutions the space to correct, improve, and deliver results.
Sabah’s development agenda requiresstrong, credible institutions. The focus now should be on reform, oversight, and results, rather than premature closure.