Sabah: Sabah has become more financially secure and developmentally advanced due to the collective efforts and stable leadership spearheaded by the state government in collaboration with the federal Unity Government, stated DAP national deputy chairman Nga Kor Ming.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nga emphasized that under the federal administration led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and with Pakatan Harapan (PH) as a supportive partner in the former state administration, Sabah received one of the largest development allocations in the country for 2026, totaling RM6.9 billion. Nga, who also serves as the Housing and Local Government Minister, highlighted that this record allocation establishes an inclusive and sustainable base intended to benefit all Sabahans. Sabah's annual revenue has surged by nearly 90 percent in four years, from RM3.59 billion in 2020 to nearly RM6.9 billion in 2024, with total collections surpassing RM26 billion from 2021 to 2024.
Nga noted that this improved financial position enabled the administration, along with its partners like PH, to build reserves exceeding RM8 billion and invest strategically in the state's populace, economy, and future. He also mentioned that RM6.9 billion is allocated for 2026 alone, and the Sabah Cabinet, which includes PH representatives, approved a record development expenditure ceiling of RM12.02 billion for 1,173 programs and projects.
On the investment front, Nga pointed out that both foreign and domestic investments have generated nearly 2,000 jobs for Sabahan youth. This includes projects like a RM19 billion green steel plant in Sipitang, a RM4.2 billion copper foil initiative, and RM3 billion solar glass manufacturing projects in Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) and Kudat.
He further stated that RM4.89 billion was invested in roads and infrastructure from 2021 to 2024, expanding Sabah's road network. Federal support also facilitated the initiation of 11 new power generation projects and the completion of four Pan Borneo Highway work packages. Nga highlighted the impact of these improvements on ordinary families, referencing the Mesra SMJ housing scheme launched in 2022, under which 7,482 homes have been completed, including the long-abandoned Putera Kiansom project.
Nga stressed that PH's involvement at both federal and state levels is vital for Sabah's ongoing development and, with the upcoming elections, he urged Sabahans to support leaders committed to service, good governance, stability, and progress. 'Elections are not only about selecting your representative, but choosing the future you want for your families, communities, and our beloved nation,' he added.
The Election Commission has scheduled November 29 as the polling day for the 17th Sabah state election.