KOTA KINABALU: Kuamut Assemblyman Datuk Masiung Banah has urged the Sabah Government to set up a special committee to pursue the state’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement from the Federal Government, saying Sabah’s political sacrifices for national stability must be recognised.
Speaking during the State Budget 2026 debate, he welcomed the surplus budget despite reduced federal allocations and called on the state to diversify its economy by exploring new mineral resources such as gold, rare earth elements and bauxite, instead of relying heavily on palm oil.
Masiung also praised education initiatives and housing commitments but criticised weak implementation on the ground, blaming slow-moving civil servants, excessive bureaucracy and delays in channeling aid to rural and remote areas.
He said approved allocations were taking too long to be spent and urged faster execution of government programmes.
In a separate intervention, he called on the Ministry of Youth, Sports Development and Creative Economy to terminate non-performing contractors and closely monitor sports complex projects in Kuamut, stressing that assemblymen are responsible for policy and securing funds, not carrying out projects.
He also pressed for wider Starlink internet coverage, better road access for boat-dependent communities, and an end to decade-long delays in electricity supply.
Masiung said current leaders have a responsibility to develop Sabah sustainably for future generations, adding that political stability and progress depend on promises being delivered, not just announced.
