KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s development agenda under Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0, scheduled to begin implementation this year, is a people-centred plan aimed at improving livelihoods across the state, according to Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Supreme Council member Datuk John Ambrose (
pic).
John said SMJ 2.0, which will roll out in 2026, builds on the foundations of SMJ 1.0 (2021–2025) while seeking to ensure development benefits are felt equally in both urban and rural areas.
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He said the next phase of the blueprint focuses on addressing gaps affecting coastal and interior communities, as well as youth, indigenous groups and small entrepreneurs.
John explained that SMJ 2.0 is designed not merely as a continuation of existing policies but as an effort to strengthen and accelerate development in priority sectors.
These sectors include economic diversification, human capital development, infrastructure expansion and the reinforcement of good governance practices, he said.
He added that the blueprint is guided by three strategic thrusts, namely strengthening key economic sectors such as agriculture, industry, tourism and the blue economy.
The second thrust, he said, focuses on empowering human capital through education, skills training, entrepreneurship and social well-being initiatives.
The third thrust involves enhancing infrastructure development while ensuring environmental sustainability and resilience, particularly in basic utilities and connectivity.
John said governance reform, transparency and political stability remain central to SMJ 2.0, noting that consistent policies and efficient service delivery are vital to investor confidence.
While specific projects for 2026 are still being finalised, he said the state will continue efforts to improve roads, water supply, digital access and investment opportunities in manufacturing, agro-processing, logistics, tourism and renewable energy.
