Sabah seeks US investment in clean energy and tourism

The Sabah state government is leveraging improved security recognition from the United States to bolster tourism and economic investment. Sabah's Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Jafry Ariffin, welcomed the US decision to ease travel advisories, noting that much of the state is now at Level 1, which advises only standard precautions. This shift follows similar downgrades in travel warnings from Japan and is credited to the effectiveness of security agencies including ESSCOM, the Royal Malaysia Police, and the Malaysian Armed Forces.

In tandem with security improvements, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is actively seeking US investment in sustainable sectors. During a reception for the US 250th Independence Anniversary, Hajiji highlighted opportunities in clean energy, the blue economy, high-value agriculture, and digital services. The state aims to utilize its strategic position in Southeast Asia to attract partners committed to responsible development, knowledge transfer, and local talent cultivation.