[email protected] 39 Several Blue Economy opportunities in Sabah's fisheries sector include exploration of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for deep-sea fishing, tuna fishing, and modern fishing vessel construction. The extensive coastline (1,600 km), sea area (76,360 sq km), islands/bays (360+), and resource diversity within the Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI) further enhance Sabah's potential. Challenges in the fisheries sector include coastal resource degradation, competition between commercial and traditional fishermen, and competition with other sectors such as tourism, oil and gas, and fisheries. To address these challenges, policies and initiatives focus on sustainable practices, fisheries management, and the protection of marine habitats. To ensure sustainable fisheries management, the Sabah Fisheries Department has implemented various policies, including zoning operations, controlling the use of fishing equipment, promoting aquaculture development, biosecurity measures, and monitoring fishing vessels through a dedicated monitoring centre. Future policies aim to strengthen the fisheries sector in Sabah, covering areas, such as capture fisheries, aquaculture, resource protection, infrastructure support, downstream activities, telecommunications, regional cooperation, research empowerment, and legislative powers. These policies are essential to foster sustainable growth and development in Sabah's fisheries sector. Originally from Sandakan, Sabah, Mr. Azhar Kassim holds a Diploma and Degree in Fisheries Science from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and a Cert. of Fishing Gear & Methodology (NFRC Japan). He has more than 30 years of experience in the public service where during that period, he has held various positions in the Sabah Fisheries Department such as Assistant Fisheries Officer, Assistant Fisheries Research Officer, Fisheries Supervisor, Head of Branch, Head of Division and then Deputy Director before being appointed to the position, which he is wearing at this time. INTERACTIVE SESSION 3 Policy Strengthening: Igniting the Growth of the Blue Economy
ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SABAH MAJU JAYA SYNÉDRIO 2023 SABAH MAJU JAYA DEVELOPMENT PLAN 1.0: 2021-2025
ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 EXPLORATION OF NEW TREASURES THROUGH THE BLUE ECONOMY CONCEPT TOWARDS SABAH MAJU JAYA: BEYOND LIMITS, UNLEASHING ECONOMY 15 DECEMBER 2023 (FRIDAY) LE MERIDIEN HOTEL, KOTA KINABALU
Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh. Good Morning, Salam Sejahtera, Salam Malaysia Madani dan Salam Sabah Maju Jaya. Alhamdulillah, we are grateful and proud to have jointly organised a meaningful programme that is Sabah Maju Jaya Synédrio: Exploration of New Treasures through the Blue Economy Concept in the State of Sabah. It was successfully conducted on 14 December 2023. The SMJ Synédrio 2023 has involved active participation from co-organiser namely, The Asia Foundation (TAF) as well as solid collaboration with strategic partners Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Maritime Institute Malaysia (MIMA), and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). The success we celebrate today is a testament to the united efforts and unwavering commitment of all involved parties. Within this Synédrio, we are not only engaged in discussions but also charted a course towards a more sustainable and visionary economy for Sabah. Blessed with marine beauty and diverse natural resources, Sabah holds immense potential in exploring the Blue Economy concept. YBHG. DATUK HAJI (DATU) ROSMADI DATU SULAI, JP Chief Coordinating Officer Sabah Maju Jaya Secretariat Chief Minister Department [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 42 I encourage participants particularly state government agencies to share ideas openly, recognising that the insights gained may bring forth new responsibilities for the involved agencies. I acknowledge the inherent resistance to change within Sabah’s agencies, both at the state and federal levels. Overcoming this reluctance is a significant challenge for the Public Service in Sabah and Malaysia as a whole. Hence, I advocated for the regular updating of regulations, enactments, and ordinances at least every three years. It is evident that some legislation, such as Acts, Ordinances, and Enactments established as far back as 1950s’ has become outdated due to shifts in thinking, technology, and practices in the context of the Blue Economy, to amend and align these legal frameworks with contemporary needs. While today marks the formulation of the Blue Economy Framework, it is crucial to recognise that this initial version may not be perfect. Continuous improvements are imperative as we navigate the intricate facets of the Blue Economy. The framework is designed to serve as a strategic guide for implementation in Sabah, focusing on sustainability and consistent physical development. Striking a delicate balance between these aspects without compromising other is indeed a formidable challenge. Moving forward entails a comprehensive review of our policies. With necessary adjustments and increased investments in research and development (R&D). Simultaneously, we must enhance the efficiency of implementation at all levels, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the Blue Economy. A paramount consideration is the safeguarding of coastal areas. I envision the extension of our territorial waters to 20 nautical miles (nm), surpassing the current limitation of 12 nm.
[email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 43 This adjustment, while facing historical challenges, is crucial for the preservation of our 400 islands, including those around Kudat and others which are still unnamed. It is essential to ensure that all Sabah islands remain within our territorial waters, preserving their historical and cultured significance. This opportunity allows us to delineate dynamic territorial lines, mirroring the natural contours of the islands rather than adhering strictly to straight lines. Additionally, defining the coastline remains an evolving task, with each region offering its interpretation. Expanding the coastal area is vital for multifaceted purposes, ranging from the protection of marginalised groups and traditional fisherman to creating breeding grounds and boosting tourism. The framework’s key components include a focus on new exploration encompassing both living and non-living aspects, preservation and conservation of assets in seas and rivers, and the management, such as coral reefs, mangrove swamps, Tagal, Bagang, and traditional practices, is integral. Several crucial elements should be integrated into the framework. Firstly, a targeted focus on both living and non-living treasures, including rivers, is imperative. In the topography of Sabah, nearly half of the state encompasses watershed areas, with riverbank management remaining uncertain. Drawing inspiration from Sarawak’s River Management Board, Sabah’s historical rivers, such as the Kinabatangan and Segama, play a significant role in the State's economy. Recognising these rivers as integral components of Sabah’s economic landscape, it is essential to incorporate them into the Blue Economy framework. Secondly, the preservation and conservation of marine and riverine ecosystems require attention. Inclusion of these aspects is highly encouraged. Moreover, the framework should underscore Sabah’s genuine strengths, notably its coral reefs, often referred to as the “Amazon of the World”, and its mangrove ecosystems. Emphasising these attributes not only attracts investors but also resonates with groups committed to conservation. Additionally, recognising Sabah’s linguistic diversity, with 58 ethnic languages actively spoken from 36 major ethnic groups, is paramount. Like New Zealand, where books are titled in the Maori language, Sabah’s rich linguistic tapestry should be acknowledged. Furthermore, the Sekretariat SMJ should explore international best practices, academic insights, and future planning elated to the Blue Economy. Understanding global perspectives will enrich Sabah’s approach and ensure alignment with international standards. The responsibilities and obligations of investors and economic players should be clearly defined within the framework. Lastly, should the need arise for new legislation, it should be seamlessly integrated into this Sabah Blue Economy framework. Following the example of developed countries, where laws evolve through trial and error, Sabah should remain adaptive to potential challenges and enact necessary legislative measures. This comprehensive approach ensures that the Blue Economy framework for Sabah is robust, inclusive, and forward-looking. In conclusion, I express my optimism that today’s meeting marks the beginning of an ongoing dialogue. Similar discussions will be convened periodically, ensuring the sustained progress of our collective efforts. I extend my sincere appreciation, and congratulations to all involved. This Sabah Blue Economy framework is poised to be elevated to the national level, serving as an exemplar for others to follow. Salam Sabah Maju Jaya and thank you.
Mr. Ramlee Kariah announced the establishment of a working committee to facilitate the development planning of the Sabah Blue Economy framework and the prepared framework will serve as a benchmark, archived for future reference. The recommendation of committee members is from various stakeholders, including the Sabah Ports Authority, Land and Survey Department, Sabah Biodiversity Centre, Department of Environmental Protection, State Economic Planning Unit (UPEN), Department of Fisheries, Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS), Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Sabah Forestry Department, Sabah Parks, Institute for Development Studies (IDS), Sabah Economy Advisory Council (SEAC), The Asia Foundation (TAF) Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), small and medium enterprises (SMEs), Maritime Institute of Malaysia (MIMA), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT). MR. RAMLEE KARIAH Chief Operating Officer Sabah Maju Jaya Secretariat Chief Minister Department [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 44 The engagement sessions will also involve the inclusion of the Museum Department, Sabah Culture Board (LKNS), and Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah (KePKAS) in the collaborative effort towards a comprehensive and sustainable Blue Economy in Sabah. Additionally, various committees will be established, aligning with the respective sectors to ensure a comprehensive and organised approach. These committees will play a crucial role in the effective implementation and adherence to the framework's principles. Overall, a concerted effort is underway to address safety, security, and sustainability concerns, emphasising the importance of a holistic and legally compliant approach in all activities.
Assoc. Prof. EUR. ING. Ts. Ir. Dr. Syuhaida presented the outcomes of two comprehensive questionnaire surveys conducted during the Sabah Maju Jaya Synédrio 2023 event on the 14th of December 2023 held at Le Meridien Hotel, Kota Kinabalu. The surveys delved into the realms of Sabah Maju Jaya Synédrio feedback and the understanding on the Blue Economy, with 63 and 84 participants, respectively, contributing their insights. Regarding the Sabah Maju Jaya Synédrio feedback survey, a notable 46% of respondents strongly agreed or agreed that Sabah Maju Jaya Synédrio’s objectives were clearly defined. In terms of content alignment, 54% of respondents acknowledged that the content of Sabah Maju Jaya Synédrio substantiated its objectives, with an additional 39.7% expressing strong agreement. ASSOC. PROF. EUR. ING. TS. IR. DR. SYUHAIDA ISMAIL Director of Research Maritime Institute of Malaysia (MIMA) [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 45 In evaluating the organisation and topics, 46% agreed, while 39.7% strongly agreed that Synédrio was well-organised and facilitated easy comprehension of the discussed topics. Sabah Maju Jaya Synédrio featured 3 plenary speakers, 3 moderators, and 10 panels. Impressively, over 63.5% of respondents strongly agreed that the speakers demonstrated a profound understanding of the topics, and the discussions and presentations were highly interactive. Another 36.4% expressed agreement with this sentiment. Participants were also questioned about their preferred topics, revealing diverse inclinations as shown in Figure 1. 12 respondents favoured all topics, while 11 leaned towards the Blue Economy concept and framework. Eight participants expressed a preference for discussions on renewable energy/ Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), and an equal number favoured topics related to economic growth and policy. Five respondents showed interest in the benefits and potential of the Blue Economy. The remaining preferences were distributed among topics, such as biodiversity, fishery, social inclusion, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), tourism, shipping, seabed mining, and issues and challenges of the Blue Economy.
[email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 46 Figure 1: Preferred topics in SMJ Synédrio 2023 selected by the respondents In addition to numerical data, participants provided constructive feedback and suggestions. Requests were made for increased presentation and session times, greater exposure to renewable energy, information on grant and funding opportunities, dedicated forums for specific topics, encouragement of community participation, and the inclusion of more stakeholders in future Synédrio events. The participants' comments reflected appreciation for the event's informativeness and timeliness, labeling it an excellent and commendable initiative with a well-executed secretariat. In the second survey focusing on the Blue Economy understanding as shown in Figure 2, demographic insights revealed that 53.6% of respondents identified as male, while 46.4% identified as female. Respondents, representing various sectors, showcased diversity with 80% affiliated with ministries/government agencies, 4.7% representing private companies, and the remainder encompassing individuals from non-government organisations (NGOs), government linked companies (GLCs), students, teachers, and the self-employed. Notably, respondents hailed from distinct sectors, such as Local Authority (31%), academia (9.5%), fisheries (7.1%), energy (3.6%), administration (3.6%), research and development (R&D) (2.4%), NGO (2.4%), environment (2.4%), Sabah Drainage and Irrigation Department (JPS) (2.4%), agriculture (2.4%), and 1% each from tourism, regulators, oil and gas, security, public services, among others. Regarding awareness of the Blue Economy concept, 75% of respondents indicated familiarity, while 25% reported never having heard of it. The sources of awareness varied, with 39.3% citing social media, 23.8% newspapers/journals, 6% friends, and smaller percentages from television, YouTube, radio, and diverse events like seminars, academic discussions, meetings, forums, lectures, policies, and literature.
[email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 47 Figure 2: Demographic and responses on Blue Economy understanding by respondents Concerning Sabah's Blue Economy initiatives, 50% of respondents were aware, while the remaining 50% were not. The understanding of the Blue Economy concept varied among participants, with responses ranging from economy, ocean, sustainable use, exploration, protection, community, Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG), fishery, to tourism as shown in Figure 3. Figure 3: Understanding on Blue Economy concept by respondents
[email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 48 In examining potential benefits as illustrated in Figure 4, respondents identified education/R&D (56%), business opportunities (51.2%), food security (50%), job opportunities (50%), and career opportunities (44%) as areas that could benefit from the development and implementation of the Blue Economy. Participants could select multiple options. Figure 4: Potential benefits of Blue Economy as identified by respondents In ranking the importance of Blue Economy activities, habitat protection and restoration received the highest ranking, followed by fisheries, tourism, aquaculture, renewable energy, technology and R&D, oil and gas, port infrastructure and services, shipping, coastal development, assimilation of nutrients and wastes, blue carbon, seabed mining, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, and desalination. Concerning financial assistance, 92.9% of respondents agreed on the necessity of a financial assistance scheme for the Blue Economy sector. Regarding the type of financial assistance, preferences included investment funds (78.6%), grants (72.6%), private-public partnerships (69%), tax incentives (58.3%), community development funds (53.6%), subsidies (50%), and loan and credit facilities (46.4%). Addressing challenges, respondents identified financial assistance, safety and security, act and policy, environmental protection, expertise, effective implementation, awareness, social inclusion, collaboration, facility, technology, and data. Remarkably, all respondents expressed unanimous support for the Blue Economy in Sabah.
INPUTFROM THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS
MR. MASWANDIE MAIMOON Director Sabah Ports and Harbours Department Ministry of Infrastructure Development [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 50 Mr. Maswandie Maimoon informed about the unique situation in terms of the development and empowerment of ports in Sabah. In Sabah, there are the Sabah Maritime Department, the Ports and Harbours Department, and the Sabah Ports Authority. The separation of their respective duties exists between the departments. However, the issue of overlapping jurisdictions persists, highlighting the necessity for a clarification of jurisdiction alignment, specifically in water control, within a defined framework of authority. Exploring the potential of ship-to-ship transfer (STS) activities, encompassing cargo loading/unloading and dry bulk activities, remains a key consideration. In this context, Sabah Maju Jaya Secretariat is specifically requested to aid in clarifying and delineating these jurisdictions and duties, fostering a more streamlined and efficient operational framework. Drawing on an illustrative example such as the Ports and Harbours Department, the impact on marketing is substantial. The lack of clarity in jurisdictions and duties often results in investors retracting their involvement due to issues like double charges arising from jurisdictional overlaps. To address these complexities and ensure legal coherence, involving the Attorney General is deemed crucial, adding a layer of legal expertise to the ongoing discussions and initiatives. INPUT 1
MR. AZHAR KASSIM Director Department of Fisheries Sabah [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 51 Mr. Azhar Kassim briefed about agencies that are involved in fisheries management, such as the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM), Ko-Nelayan (socio-economic organisation for fishermen in Sabah), and Sabah Fish Marketing (SaFMA). The management of coastal areas, which by definition, includes islands, poses challenges, especially considering that some of these islands are uninhabited. According to Mr. Azhar, several critical considerations demand careful attention. Firstly, the management of coastal areas, including around 400 islands, poses unique challenges, particularly given that a significant population resides on many of these islands. The Department of Fisheries (DOF) has observed a pattern of persistent poverty among island residents, where the occupation of fishing is often inherited, emphasising the need to address the educational requirements of these communities. Secondly, strategic investments in research and development (R&D) are imperative. DOF, for instance, formulates policies based on the R&D inputs, highlighting the significance of continuous research efforts to inform decision-making. Collaboration with academic institutions, such as Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Universiti Malaya (UM) is extensive, emphasising the importance of data and researchers in managing the Blue Economy effectively. INPUT 2
[email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 52 Thirdly, addressing legal limitations within the regulatory framework is essential to ensure effective governance and management of marine resources. Despite progress, legal constraints persist, impacting the management of marine resources. Safety concerns extend across all relevant agencies, emphasising the need for coordination among safety-related organisations. Challenges related to the Fisheries Act hinder the attraction of investors to aquaculture and deep-sea ventures, with enforcement proving to be a major obstacle. The Blue Economy initiative spans various agencies and departments. Ensuring safety not only mitigates risks but also facilitates the smooth implementation of Blue Economy-related initiatives without apprehensions, especially for DOF. A cohesive approach to these considerations is vital for the successful and sustainable advancement of the Blue Economy in Sabah. Addressing these multifaceted challenges necessitates a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving various stakeholders.
SR. CHUA MING LING @ ALAN Deputy Director of Lands and Surveys (Development) Department of Land and Survey Sabah [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 53 According to Sr. Chua Ming Ling @ Alan, Sabah boasts a total of 421 named islands, meticulously designated by the authorities. Habitat conservation, integral to the formulation, extends to include the preservation of mangrove swamps. In the realm of economic development, there exists a proposal from a company aiming to engage in mangrove-related activities aligned with the Blue Economy, particularly in the production of battery components—an endeavour with a successful track record in Peninsular Malaysia. To enhance this initiative, involving Invest Sabah for investor attraction is recommended. In addressing potential land-related issues, Sabah is equipped with the Land Ordinance (Cap. 68) and Mining Ordinance 1960. The Land Ordinance comes into play concerning the Continental Shelf, while conflicts arising from the PETRONAS Act, specifically the three nautical mile jurisdiction limit, necessitate the involvement of the Attorney General and a reference to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) for resolution. In navigating the intricate landscape of natural resource management and regulatory frameworks, Sabah demonstrates a commitment to balance economic progress with environmental conservation and legal coherence. INPUT 3
DR. MAKLARIN LAKIM Director Sabah Parks [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 54 According to Dr. Maklarin Lakim, Sabah boasts notable conservation achievements with the establishment of Taman Tun Mustapha in 2016 and Taman Marin Tun Sakaran, which received its designation 19 years ago. The regions governed by the existing parks, which are traditional parks, should be uninhabited. However, there is an occupant in those marine parks. To address this, legislative amendments are imperative to permit indigenous populations to reside in the designated modern parks. The ambitious vision is to oversee all maritime areas in Sabah, emphasising the creation of modern parks where human habitation is permitted. As of 2004, a modern park was already in existence, raising the question of how to ensure poverty eradication within park boundaries. To realise this vision, contemporary park management systems need to be devised, necessitating amendments to existing ordinances. Furthermore, a proposal is underway to designate Pulau Mantanani, Pulau Mengalum, and Pulau Ligitan as Sabah Parks, reinforcing the commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development in the region. The endeavours highlight the need for legal revisions, embracing progressive concepts of modern park management and harmonising these with the aspirations of indigenous communities. INPUT 4
ASSOC. PROF. DR. CHING FUI FUI @ FAIHANNA CHING ABDULLAH Director Borneo Marine Research Institute Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION:SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 55 Asooc. Prof. Dr. Faihanna Ching Abdullah shared about the importance of data for the Blue Economy. Several data need to be updated through research and development (R&D) efforts, and the collaboration between Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and other agencies stands as a ready avenue for achieving this. The existing data is obsolete as it is more than 10 years. The acknowledgement of outdated data, spanning over a decade, underscores the urgency for comprehensive data renewal and the integration of cutting-edge research findings. Dr. Faihanna also shared about the recent appointment of Borneo Marine Research Institute as the High Centre of Excellence (COE) in aquaculture. The elevation of Borneo Marine Research Institute to the status of High COE not only positions it as an authoritative figure in aquaculture but also aligns seamlessly with the broader objectives of the Blue Economy. This strategic collaboration between Sabah Maju Jaya Secretariat and Borneo Marine Research Institute signifies a proactive step towards modernising research methodologies and fostering expertise in aquaculture within the context of the evolving Blue Economy landscape. INPUT 5
PROF. DR. MOHD. KAMARULNIZAM ABDULLAH Principal Fellow Institute of Malaysia and International Studies (IKMAS) Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 56 Prof. Dr. Mohd. Kamarulnizam Abdullah emphasises the control and security of borders as critical considerations, and in 2016, a study was conducted under the National Security Council's (NSC) project, focusing on development and security with a particular emphasis on the Blue Economy. Discussions at the state and business levels align with the ASEAN framework of the Blue Economy, which emphasises a people-centric approach and empowerment as a foundational trust. However, in the unique context of Sabah, where stateless people are a reality, implementing effective control measures becomes particularly challenging. Furthermore, the years 2017-2018 saw the integration of Blue Economy discussions into a study on legal cases conducted by the NSC. Within this framework, the emphasis on the empowerment of residents contributing to the economy became a focal point, necessitating a thorough exploration of how their contributions can be maximised. The issue of stateless individuals has emerged as a significant challenge, prompting a critical examination of how their inclusion can be facilitated within the Blue Economy framework. Importantly, security concerns are given priority within the Blue Economy framework, emphasising the need for comprehensive strategies to ensure safety and order in the pursuit of economic initiatives. Examining international examples, such as Indonesia's management of occupied parks, offers a comparative analysis for potential strategies, especially when addressing the complexities posed by tourists, as seen in the case of Komodo Island. INPUT 6
HJ. AHMAD IKRAM ABDULLAH Senior Policy Advisor The Asia Foundation (Malaysia) [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 57 Social inclusivity, often referred to as the "people's economy," was underscored by Dr. Ramzah Dambul (CEO IDS) as a fundamental aspect of the human dimension within the Blue Economy (BE). Mr. Hj. Ahmad Ikram Abdullah highlighted a three-tiered approach to policy in establishing a comprehensive framework. The first level involves policies that are not only viable but also practical for implementation. The second level necessitates effective execution and strategy formulation, ensuring that policies are translated into tangible actions. The third level emphasises the importance of continuous monitoring and evaluation to gauge the impact and effectiveness of the implemented policies and strategies. According to Mr. Hj. Ahmad Ikram, the guiding principle for Sabah is to determine what is best not only for the region but also for its inhabitants. This approach reflects a commitment to aligning policies and strategies with the unique needs and aspirations of the people of Sabah. By emphasising social inclusivity within the Blue Economy framework, the focus remains on creating policies that not only contribute to economic growth but also ensure that the benefits are shared equitably among the population, fostering sustainable development and well-being for all. INPUT 7
PROF. DR. TAMAT SARMIDI Deputy Director Institute of Malaysian and International Studies (IKMAS) Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 58 Prof. Dr. Tamat Sarmidi stresses the importance of the evaluation and monitoring process of Blue Economy activities. The data needs are quite urgent. At the national level there is no clear framework or indicator regarding the Blue Economy. In fact, there are differences in the data released by the agency regarding the contribution of the Blue Economy to the country's Gross Domestic Products (GDP). At the national and international level, Malaysia Standard Industrial Classification (MSIC) and Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) 4/6 digit components are already available. Therefore, if Sabah can develop a framework using the MSIC code system at the state level, it can be taken up at the national level as a reference to the ministry. The involvement of the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) is deemed crucial, as it possesses the expertise to provide valuable inputs for the framework. DOSM's participation in managing data through industrial surveys becomes pivotal in ensuring accurate and comprehensive information is gathered. The importance of data in the evaluation and monitoring of initiatives cannot be overstated. Notably, at the national level, there is currently a lack of clear indicators. To address this, a call is made to develop a robust framework and database, incorporating both I6 (Input, Impact, Income, Innovation, Inclusivity, and Investment) and M6 (Monitoring, Measurement, Management, Modelling, Methodology, and Mapping) components. These components can then be elevated to the national level. In this context, the formulation of a method for monitoring investment outcomes is imperative, necessitating the creation of a structured format for data collection. The engagement of the DOSM in crafting this framework becomes paramount, emphasising the need for collaboration between stakeholders to establish a robust and nationally relevant monitoring and evaluation system. INPUT 8
ASSOC. PROF. EUR. ING. TS. IR. DR. SYUHAIDA ISMAIL Director of Research Maritime Institute of Malaysia (MIMA) [email protected] ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION: SUMMARY OF SMJ SYNÉDRIO 2023 59 Assoc. Prof. EUR. ING. Ts. Ir. Dr. Syuhaida has provided guidance for the development of the Sabah Blue Economy framework. The key points to be integrated into the framework include: Definition of Blue Economy: Aligned with the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan 1.0 (2021 - 2025), ensuring consistency and harmony with the broader development goals. Components/Activities of Blue Economy: Clearly outlining the specific components and activities that fall under the purview of the Blue Economy in Sabah. Blue Economy Challenges and Proposed Solutions: Identifying challenges faced by the Blue Economy in Sabah and proposing practical solutions to address them effectively. Blue Economy Opportunities: Highlighting opportunities within the Blue Economy that can be leveraged for sustainable development and growth. Critical Success Factors/Key Performance Index of Blue Economy: Establishing the critical success factors and key performance indicators that will be used to measure the success and effectiveness of Blue Economy initiatives. Assessment Approach of Blue Economy Attainment: Outlining the methodology and approach for assessing the attainment and progress of Sabah Blue Economy goals and objectives. Assoc. Prof. EUR. ING. Ts. Ir. Dr. Syuhaida has advised all delegates to contribute their input through Google Drive, ensuring a collaborative and organised platform for gathering ideas and insights. This approach fosters efficient communication and facilitates the integration of diverse perspectives in shaping a comprehensive and effective Sabah Blue Economy framework aligned with the SMJ Development Plan 1.0 (2021 - 2025). INPUT 9
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EXPLORATION OF NEW TREASURES THROUGH THE BLUE ECONOMY CONCEPT TOWARDS SABAH MAJU JAYA: BEYOND LIMITS, UNLEASHING ECONOMY SABAH MAJU JAYA SECRETARIAT www.smj.sabah.gov.my