KOTA KINABALU, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- The Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) must continue to strengthen cooperation and work closely together to address development gaps, said Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
He added that BIMP-EAGA was established to accelerate the socio-economic development of less-developed, marginalised and geographically remote areas in the four-member countries as part of a broader effort to reduce the development disparities.
"The main strategy of BIMP-EAGA is to mobilise and attract private sector investments to stimulate economic growth and development within the sub-region.
"In this context, national, state, provincial and local governments play a crucial role, as they are responsible for creating a conducive environment through the establishment of appropriate policies, regulations, and infrastructure," he said while chairing the 6th BIMP EAGA Chief Ministers, Governors and Local Governments Forum (CMLGF) here today.
Joachim emphasised the CMGLF serves as a key platform representing the interests, aspirations and development priorities of state, provincial and local governments.
"This forum promotes trade, tourism, investment and other cross-border activities within our sub-region. I fervently hope that this forum will achieve great success in fostering insightful discussions, nurturing innovative ideas and promoting a collaborative environment that brings together diverse perspectives from our sub-region.
"Collectively, we can transform this platform into a vibrant hub of inspiration, empowerment and action towards meaningful development for all, ultimately improving the quality of life for the people in the sub-region, especially in the remote areas of our four nations," he added.
-- BERNAMA
