In 1995, real growth is estimated to reach 6.3 percent spearheaded by manufacturing, agriculture and tourism. Natural Resources and Crops Sabah's abundance natural resource endowments is the State's distinctive comparative advantage. Although these natural resources are fast depleting in recent times, they still have a major role in shaping the State's economy. For example, forestry and mining comprised more than 20.0 percent of Sabah's total real GDP in 1994. The wood processing industry has grown substantially over the years and has been the main reason behind the expansion of the State's manufacturing sector.
Oil palm is the most important estate crop in Sabah.
It was first introduced to the State in the early 1960s and in the last three decades, the oil palm industry has contributed significantly to the State's economy.