Sabah's RM80.9m Natural Resources Ministry complex to complete by early 2029

KOTA KINABALU, Jan 17 — The construction of the Sabah Mini Complex of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, costing RM80.9 million, is expected to be fully completed in early 2029, Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said.

He stated the contractor entered the 6.77-hectare project site in Kepayan near the Kota Kinabalu International Airport in late 2023, with construction estimated to take about 40 months.

The complex will house four departments under the ministry: the Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia, the Minerals and Geoscience Department, the Office of the Lands and Mines Director-General, and the Malaysian Meteorological Department.

"Previously, the offices of these four departments were scattered, and this complex will greatly facilitate operations as most of the offices were renting space in complexes around Kota Kinabalu," Arthur said.

"So this complex will centralise all four departments in one location, making our work easier, while also ending the long wait to own our own building and assets in Sabah," he told reporters after officiating at the groundbreaking ceremony.

Also present was Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Jafry Ariffin.

Arthur said the complex would save on rental costs and enhance management efficiency through centralisation of activities, meetings, and training at a strategic location.

He added the complex would include facilities such as a multipurpose hall, a JMG laboratory, warehouses, and management offices.

"What is special about this complex is that it will incorporate green features to ensure it is in line with the government’s policy to enhance sustainable practices in the construction industry," he said.

The project is part of efforts to improve operational efficiency and support sustainable development in Sabah.