Platforms such as the Home Design and Interior Exhibition (HomeDec-Ipex) 2019 help the state reach its 35% Gross Domestic Product (GDP) target towards an industrialized Sabah, said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau.

He said the fourth edition of HomeDec-Ipex does not merely elevate the built environment and bridge the gap between industry players in the architecture, and decor and interior design community, but may also serve to spur other industry players to create synergies that will push forward Sabah’s economic development.

“Sabah’s vision of achieving the status of an industrialised state may seem a daunting task but it is attainable, especially with effective platforms such as the HomeDec-Ipex where the public sector come together to collaborate and complement the state, which will contribute 35% of Sabah’s GDP,” said Tangau when officiating the event at Sabah Trade Centre here yesterday.

“In view of this, it is my fervent hope that both HomeDec and Ipex will continue its efforts in providing this platform for participants and trade visitors from West and East Malaysia to converge and discuss trade, collaborate and establish business networks. I also welcome more participation from industry players to establish a local presence in Sabah in order to create more job opportunities for our locals.

“At the same time, Sabah homeowners will definitely benefit from a wide range of quality products and services from renowned brands that are currently not available to them. With HomeDec-Ipex, Sabahans get to enjoy the best deals at their doorstep,” he added.

Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) Sabah Chapter chairman Rizal Ahmad Banjar said the exhibition is an ideal marriage of property and home furnishing-bringing everything that homebuyers and homeowners need under one roof.

“This effort has opened doors for new business opportunities among exhibitors, providing them with a diverse range of prices, products and services for all players in the built industry-contributing to the advancement of the architecture and home interior and design industry in East Malaysia,” he said.

PAM Sabah Chapter deputy chairman Shahriman Abdullah, PAM Sabah Chapter committee members, exhibitors, sponsors and partners of the HomeDec-Ipex 2019 were also at the opening ceremony.