Sabah: Sabah’s logistics and trade sector can only thrive if efforts to digitalise are matched by strong support for small businesses and rural communities, a regional logistics expert said. Former president of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Malaysia and vice-president of CILT International for Southeast Asia Datuk Dr Ramli Amir highlighted issues related to digital disconnection in many parts of Sabah, despite advancements in port infrastructure and logistics planning.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ramli emphasized the importance of ensuring digitalisation efforts do not widen the development gap. He stressed that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and rural logistics players need access to necessary tools, platforms, and support to participate in the digital transformation. Ramli pointed out that limited connectivity, lack of awareness, and insufficient digital training are challenges that prevent micro-enterprises and rural businesses from benefitting from data-driven trade initiatives.

He proposed that targeted interventions like capacity-building programmes, inclusive policy frameworks, and public-private collaborations are essential to bring these players on board. Additionally, he called for broader investment in digital infrastructure and broadband expansion in underserved areas to ensure inclusive digital transformation.

Ramli stated that if only urban and large players benefit from digital advances, a significant portion of the economy could be left behind. He noted that Sabah’s strategic position in the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) sub-region could be advantageous for regional trade agreements, but only if the entire logistics network, including rural feeder routes, community ports, and land transport, is included in the digital upgrade.

He concluded that the future of logistics must be both digital and equitable, ensuring everyone is part of this journey toward digital transformation.