Teo (seated), who represents Musa, officiates at the FCAS swearing-in ceremony. He is flanked by association president Goh (middle) and deputy president Datuk Jimmy Yong Kyok Ming (left)
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman lauded the Sabah Federation of Chinese Associations for their contribution to economic growth in the state.
Speaking at the 11th Federation of Chinese Associations (FCAS) Committee swearing-in ceremony here yesterday, Musa noted that the existence of the federation had brought many advantages and benefits, not only to the federation itself but also to the people in the state, in light of the fact that many from the Chinese community are involved in business and the economy.
“The contribution of the Chinese community to the economic prosperity of the state has certainly been proven. Therefore, it is important for the Chinese community to continue working with the government to ensure the stability of economic growth so that we can have the desired level of development and achieve a more stable atmosphere,” said Musa, who’s speech was read by Special Tasks Minister Datuk Teo Chee Kang, at the ceremony.
“This will certainly make this state the foreign and domestic investors’ choice, given the conducive and comfortable environment that allows them to conduct business activities better,” he added.
Musa also urged FCAS to carry on supporting the state government to further the development of Sabah.
“Having seen your track record, I am confident that the Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah will continue to serve as an effective bridge between the Chinese community and the Sabah government. With a spirit of moderation and the commitment to cooperate, we will be able to bring Sabah to greater heights for the benefit of the people in this state,” he said.
“I also wish to express my appreciation to your Federation for the support and cooperation that you have extended to the state government. The Federation has worked hard to bring to fruition government programmes related to the economy and business. This has placed us on better economic footing and I trust you will remain committed in seeing that Sabah will continue to prosper,” added Musa.
T C Goh was officially appointed uncontested as FCAS president 2015 – 2018 for the first time after his predecessor the late Datuk Seri Sari Tan was required to vacate his post in August 2013.
At the same time, former FCAS vice president Datuk Jimmy Yong Kyok Ming was also reinstated as deputy president.
Among the new line-up are 1st vice president Datuk Susan Wong, 2nd vice president Datuk Chua, 3rd vice president Kapitan Lim, 4th vice president Datuk William Chu, 5th vice president Lee Hing Boo, 6th vice president Dennis Gan, 7th vice president Datuk Agnes Shim, secretary general Datuk Andrew Yong, deputy secretary general Robin Tay, treasurer Fung Chun Fatt and deputy treasurer Kapitan Wong Tet Yun.
Also present during the ceremony were Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department Datuk Yong Oui Fah, Community Development and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Jainab Ahmad Ayid, FCAS Malaysia president Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Pheng Yin Huah as well as other members of the state cabinet and other dignitaries.