KOTA KINABALU: The notable successes of Sawit Kinabalu prove that government-linked companies (GLCs) in Sabah can be on par and compete with private companies by adopting professional, efficient and effective management, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.
Speaking at the Sawit Kinabalu’s breaking of fast here last night, Musa said he was in general happy and satisfied with the performance of the State’s GLCs, as they have continuously shown commendable achievements.
“I hope all GLCs will continue to multiply effort in developing whatever sector they have ventured into, and contribute towards creating wealth and prosperity for Sabah and the country in general,” he said.
Musa, who is also the chairman of Sawit Kinabalu, said he was pleased that the company had never failed to fulfil its obligation to provide advance payment to smallholders involved in its joint ventures as well as hardcore poor family heads from the area where it operates in Lahad Datu.
He said the company was able to make advance payment due to its relentless hard work and sound management.
Despite having to deal with many challenges and unfavourable market, he said Sawit Kinabalu managed to maintain encouraging revenues.
“Well done for this achievement. I hope Sawit Kinabalu will continue to further improve its efficiency and professionalism in realizing its business goals, and contribute to Sabah’s economy,” he said.
Musa also called on smallholders in Bagahal and Silabukan as well as the Hardcore Poor Housing Project (PPRT) participants in Lahad Datu to continue supporting the effort by the government and its agencies to improve the economy of the people.
He advised them not be easily influenced by the lies of irresponsible parties bent on disrupting the peace and prosperity enjoyed by the people of Sabah all this while.
Meanwhile, Sawit Kinabalu’s group managing director, Datuk Othman Walat in his welcoming address, said the company recorded commendable performance last year, having successfully achieved its targeted annual productivity.
However, the revenue recorded was lower as compared to the previous year due to lower prices of commodity in the global market.
He said the market was expected to remain sluggish this year and continued to adversely impact the company’s financial performance.
“However, Sawit Kinabalu is always prepared for challenges like this. Suitable strategies and approaches will be adopted. Regardless the circumstances, Sawit Kinabalu has continued its business plans, including to strengthen efficiency, lowering operational cost and optimising resource utilisation to increase output,” he said.
Othman added Sawit Kinabalu’s strength lies on its professional and committed human resource, and the strong support from the government, its partners and the community.
At the event, Othman also presented cheques to Bagahak and Silabukan smallholders, witnessed by Musa.
Since its inception in 2000, the company has given advance payment amounting to RM93 million to Bagahak and Silabukan while another RM35 million has been given as dividends to Tongod and Kalabakan PPRT beneficiaries.