KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor believes that the establishment of the Borneo International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation (Bicam) on Thursday (July 20) will position Sabah as a regional hub for alternative dispute resolution. Hajiji commended Bicam’s chairman, Tan Sri David Wong, for his efforts in establishing the center, which signifies the state government’s commitment to foster an environment for efficient and cost-effective resolution of commercial disputes.
Representing Hajiji at the launching ceremony at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Jeffrey Kitingan delivered the Chief Minister’s speech. Hajiji emphasized the importance of Bicam’s training and education programs in equipping legal professionals with the necessary skills for alternative dispute resolution, further establishing Sabah and Sarawak as leading destinations for legal services in the region.
Hajiji expressed the state government’s support for Bicam’s initiatives, highlighting the involvement of local and international arbitrators and mediators to enhance the center’s credibility and effectiveness. He also emphasized the importance of a diverse and skilled panel of experts. The council overseeing Bicam will consist of heads of professional bodies across the region, ensuring effective governance and a shared vision for its operations.
Hajiji called upon Bicam to emulate the achievements of renowned institutions like the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) and the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC), which have attracted significant foreign direct investment (FDI). He believes that the establishment of Bicam will stimulate growth in various industries, leading to a spill-over effect on Sabah’s development.
Credit: The Star : News Feed