KOTA KINABALU: The interim special grant of RM900 million for Sabah should be utilized to strengthen the development of basic infrastructure and the education sector, for the well-being of the people and the long-term development of the state.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak Affairs), Datuk Ts. Mustapha Sakmud, stated that the Federal Government’s commitment—under the leadership of the Prime Minister—to channel an interim special grant totaling RM1.5 billion to Sabah demonstrates a sincere effort to address demands regarding the state’s financial rights.
He noted that of this total, RM600 million—which had been disbursed previously—was utilized by the state government for the construction of ‘Rumah SMJ’ (Sabah Maju Jaya housing units) and the implementation of the ‘Program Sentuhan Kasih Rakyat’ (SYUKUR). This program provides monthly assistance to the B40 group, specifically those registered within the ‘e-Kasih’ system, as part of efforts to eradicate hardcore poverty.
“Regarding the remaining RM900 million, we hope the state government will prioritize the development of basic infrastructure—such as roads, water supply, and electricity—as these are the primary needs of the people,” he said.
According to him, a portion of the allocation should also be directed toward the education sector, including the provision of scholarships for Sabahans pursuing studies at public and private higher education institutions, as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
He added that investing in education is a strategic move to cultivate a new generation capable of leading and managing Sabah’s future development.
“This is a long-term investment that will develop top-tier talent for both the state and the nation, while ensuring the continuity of Sabah’s development,” he told reporters from Demi Sabah.
