Kota Kinabalu: Sabah is set to witness a major surge in development through the implementation of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) 2026-2030, which focuses on the State’s actual needs and potential.
Head of State Tun Musa Aman said under the 13MP, 10 priority areas have been identified as the main drivers of Sabah’s development over the next five years.
He said this approach has been designed comprehensively to ensure that every development sector can be mobilised more strategically and deliver a high impact for the people.
Delivering his policy speech when opening the First Term of the 17th State Legislative Assembly sitting, Thursday, Musa said 1,173 projects have been planned under the implementation of the 13MP, covering various state development sectors.
Of that total, 933 projects are new, while the remainder are extension projects from previous development plans.
Musa also informed that the total approved allocation ceiling for the implementation of the 13MP is RM12.024 billion. This figure shows a significant increase of 141.62 per cent compared to the allocation ceiling under the 12MP.
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“Overall, the total approved allocation ceiling is RM12.024 billion, which is an increase of 141.62 per cent compared to the ceiling under the 12MP,” he said.
He added that the increase in allocation reflects the State Government’s determination to accelerate Sabah’s development in a more comprehensive and structured manner.
At the same time, he noted that careful planning and effective project implementation are crucial to ensuring that the benefits of development can be enjoyed by the people across the State.
He emphasised that the implementation of the 13MP will serve as an important foundation for strengthening the State’s economic growth and improving the well-being of the people.
Musa also expressed his confidence that with the larger allocation and strategic planning, Sabah is on the right track to achieve more sustainable and inclusive development over the next five years.
Meanwhile, Sabah has maintained strong financial performance, with annual revenue collection exceeding RM6 billion for three consecutive years since 2022.
Musa said the State Government will continue efforts to enhance revenue collection, particularly through stronger enforcement of the State Sales Tax.
He said stricter compliance measures will be implemented to curb leakages while improving collection efficiency.
“Collaboration with strategic partner agencies will be strengthened to optimise revenue collection, including from taxable products under existing frameworks,” he said.
He emphasised that government-linked companies (GLCs) will be encouraged to explore new sectors with strong economic potential such as renewable energy, logistics, tourism and artificial intelligence.
“The move is in line with the State’s aspiration to diversify income sources and enhance economic competitiveness,” he said, adding that it supports sustainable and high-impact development.
On external risks, he said geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran could affect the global economy and have spill-over effects on domestic conditions.
This may lead to rising costs and inflationary pressure on essential goods and food supply due to higher oil prices and increased international logistics expenses, he added.
He urged the public to remain calm and practise prudent spending amid the uncertain global environment.
At the same time, he said the State Government will continue proactive measures to ensure development plans are implemented efficiently and effectively.
“This is important to safeguard the wellbeing of the people, strengthen economic resilience and ensure continued stability,” he said.
He said development plans require cooperation from all parties and called for unity regardless of race, religion or political background in advancing the State’s development agenda.
He also expressed appreciation to civil servants, security forces and all stakeholders for their role in maintaining stability, noting that their commitment remains a key pillar in ensuring the success of the State’s development plans.
He concluded by calling for unity and continued wellbeing for Sabah and its people.
