THE Sabah Government aims to ensure all Sabahans have access to basic amenities, economic opportunities, and a better quality of life, said State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
He emphasised that balanced regional development is crucial to narrowing the gap between urban and rural areas.
The Ministry of Rural Development Sabah (KPLB), along with District and Sub-District Offices, is allocated RM317.72 million for operational and development expenditures in 2026.
Under this, KPLB will implement high-impact programmes targeting communities in remote areas lacking electricity, clean water, and safe road networks.
Under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), a ceiling of RM1.71 billion has been approved for 13 new projects, including: Bekalan Elektrik Luar Bandar Alternatif (BELBA) Programme - improving rural electricity access, Bekalan Air Luar Bandar Alternatif (BALBA) Programme - enhancing clean water supply and Jambatan Kecil Luar Bandar (JKLB) Project – upgrading rural infrastructure
The Sabah District Officers Conference will serve as a strategic platform to ensure efficient and transparent implementation of rural development policies.
The Ministry of Local Government and Housing (KKTP) and its agencies are allocated RM257.44 million for operational and development expenditure.
Under 13MP, a ceiling of RM280.19 million supports 70 projects, including the construction of weekly markets, community halls, bus terminals, and new markets in districts such as Beaufort and Keningau. RM11.14 million is earmarked as capital grants to Local Authorities (PBT) for ongoing and new initiatives.
The government is also prioritising a clean and healthy environment through upgrades to solid waste disposal sites in Semporna, Keningau, Papar, Beaufort, Kudat, and Tawau, along with initiatives to reduce landfill waste and encourage private sector participation in waste management.
The Town and Regional Planning Department will receive RM6.57 million, including RM500,000 for district development plans in Semporna and Kunak.
Meanwhile, the Sabah Native Affairs Department is allocated RM84.40 million to preserve native welfare and customs, including RM69.98 million for allowances to Native Chiefs and RM2.70 million for construction of Native Courts in Tamparuli, Sook, and Paitan.
These measures highlight Sabah’s commitment to balanced regional growth, sustainable urban planning, and the well-being of rural communities.
