Kota Kinabalu: Sook Assemblyman Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup has proposed the establishment of a bipartisan special scommittee to directly monitor the implementation of infrastructure and public utility projects, in line with the State Government’s priorities under the 2026 Sabah Budget.
He said the committee should comprise representatives from both the Government and the Opposition to ensure monitoring is transparent, effective and continuous, covering projects that directly impact the welfare of the people.
“I wish to propose for the establishment of a special committee consisting of Government and Opposition representatives to monitor infrastructure and public utilities that we see as a primary agenda of the Government,” he said when debating on the 2026 Sabah Budget during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here Monday.
Arthur said the committee could report directly to the State Legislative Assembly on its findings to ensure that all allocations and projects approved are properly implemented and not just left on paper.
He said basic infrastructure issues, such as village roads, bridges, clean water supply, and utilities, remain among the most pressing problems faced by rural residents, particularly in Sook constituency.
He added delays in upgrading village roads and constructing bridges not only affect residents’ safety and comfort but also have a direct impact on access to schools, healthcare facilities and daily economic activities.
Arthur also emphasised the importance of the agriculture and agri-food sector as a key pillar of the rural economy and food security, which requires clear policies and effective implementation.
He said agriculture can no longer rely solely on traditional methods and must be strengthened through modern technology, mechanisation and smart farming to enhance productivity and attract younger generations.
He urged the Government to focus on high-value crops cultivated in clusters, including fruits and commodities with strong domestic and export market potential, in line with Sabah’s large areas of agricultural land that are yet to be fully utilised.
He also raised the issue of land ownership and village settlements in N.45 Sook, where many residents have yet to receive individual land titles, despite having lived there for generations.
He stressed that the granting of land titles should not be used as a political promise during election periods, but must be addressed proactively with sufficient allocation to expedite surveying and application processes.
Regarding long-term State development, Arthur highlighted Sabah’s significant potential under the Blue Economy agenda, particularly through the development of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) as a clean, ocean-based energy source.
He said Sabah’s strategic geographical location, combined with the passing of the OTEC Enactment, places the State in an ideal position to generate sustainable energy, attract high-value investment, and create skilled job opportunities.
Arthur also reminded that rural residents do not judge the 2026 Sabah Budget solely by figures or projections, but by its real impact on their lives, including economic opportunities, basic amenities and the cost of living.
“The people do not ask for more; they simply want promises fulfilled and results that can be felt,” he said, urging the Government to ensure that all allocations are implemented efficiently, without leakage or political bias.
Supporting the 2026 Sabah Budget, Arthur hope that it will serve as an effective action plan to improve the welfare of the people, particularly in rural areas such as Sook.
