Industry

A recent state government announcement that it was licensing an automobile manufacturing plant to make parts for luxury passenger vehicles could lead to new jobs and a much-needed new industry sector, boosting Sabah’s export potential. However, manufacturers have voiced concerns that this might be affected by a controversial Malaysian government policy – cabotage – and its effects on Sabah’s efforts to develop new industries.

Brunei Darussalam is planning to strengthen its technical and vocational education system by increasing the number of institutions providing training, expanding the range of courses on offer and establishing exchange programmes with neighbouring countries.

Abu Dhabi’s industrialists, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and contractors have received welcome news with the announcement that the Shah natural gas project is back on track following the signing of a deal with a new foreign partner.

Record-breaking sales in 2010 have seen Malaysia’s automotive industry racing along in recent times. Moderation in demand and government policies, however, may see growth shift down a gear in 2011.

Brunei’s halal manufacturing industry is looking at 2011 as its breakthrough year, with the sector aiming to greatly expand both its range of products and the overseas markets its sells to, though there are still some challenges to be met before the full benefits of the groundwork that has been laid can be reaped.

Malaysia’s growing foreign trade is putting a strain on main ports, with delays in cargo handling being reported despite an increasing in throughput volume. This has prompted shipping firms and freight forwarders to call for greater investment in infrastructure.