KOTA KINABALU: Hundreds of enthusiastic residents, guests and patrons thronged the opening of Gamuda Land’s Curve25, a cosy township touted as a gathering place for the community where people can come together, shop, dine and socialise at its Bukit Bantayan Residences, Saturday.

Curve25 is a collection of 25 retail shop lots situated in the tranquil Bukit Bantayan Residences neighbourhood in Inanam.

The grand opening, which is also an occasion to celebrate Hari Raya as well as the month-long Kaamatan Festival, was officiated by State Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Phoong Jin Zhe. He was accompanied by Gamuda Land Project Director Lam Sew Chee, Assistant General Manager Frankie Chan Chee Fatt and Senior Relationship Manager Arthur Yong Vui Hen.

“I believe Curve25 will not only bring people together but also economic benefits to the local community and Sabah,” said Phoong in his speech.

“As the Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship, I acknowledge that SMEs are the backbone of our economy and their importance cannot be overstated.

“SMEs are the main source of employment in local communities, providing opportunities for people to work close to home, and contributing to the social and economic fabric of our communities.

“Besides that, SMEs are often leading the way in developing new products, services and business models, which can drive economic growth and create new opportunities.

“I am thrilled to see this new development come to life as its location in this neighbourhood will benefit both the consumers and the local economy as a whole.”

Phoong said he appreciated the efforts of Gamuda Land for ensuring that the development is environmentally sustainable and that it complements the existing architectural and environmental character of the neighbourhood.

“This is a hallmark of a responsible and forward-thinking development company,” the Minister stressed.

“I truly believe that Curve25 will be a tremendous asset to this community. I look forward to seeing it thrive and contribute to the growth and prosperity of our beloved State,” Phoong said as he commended all who contributed to bringing this vision to fruition – from the architects, builders, investors and community leaders. Phoong revealed that from his recent visit to China, the prospects of more green sustainable energy projects being developed in Sabah by China investors are bright, and he is working hard to solve many of Sabah’s problems that greatly bother local and foreign investors with the help of all stakeholders, including Federal authorities.

Meanwhile, Lam said the grand opening of Curve25 was a symbol of Gamuda Land’s efforts to redefine vertical living with great facilities in conducive environments that are designed with convenience, promoting the people’s health, happiness and wellbeing.

“In future, we will create more development that is sustainable, where people love to live, grow up and grow old in it.

“This is in line with our unwavering commitment to ensure that we remain connected to our residents and customers as we always relook at ways we engage with the community,” he said, adding Curve25 is part of Gamuda’s Land’s key initiatives to provide the residents and guests with a community-centric place within Bukit Bantayan Residences.