TANJUNG Keramat Assemblyman Shah Alfie Yahya said the implementation of policies under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 (SMJ 2.0) development plan for 2026–2030 must be effectively translated to the grassroots to ensure the benefits are felt by the people.
“Plans that look good at the top level must be translated to the ground. My main purpose in standing here is to ensure these grand policies truly reach the people, especially in my constituency of Tanjung Keramat,” he said.
He said the State administration must combine proven conservative approaches with new innovations to ensure continued stability and progress.
On current economic challenges, Shah Alfie said global geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran are having a direct impact through rising inflation, fuel costs and disruptions to supply chains.
He said the situation is placing significant pressure on the people, particularly civil servants, private sector workers and small traders.
“The impact is very real on the pockets and daily needs of our people, most of whom are civil servants, private employees and small traders,” he said.
He called on the Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transportation Ministry to outline proactive measures to protect small entrepreneurs and micro traders, including plans to establish a more organised and conducive permanent trading site in Putatan.
At the same time, he questioned the Government’s measures to ensure food security, particularly the supply of essential items such as rice and chicken amid global uncertainties.
He also urged a review of existing welfare assistance rates to ensure they remain relevant in light of rising living costs, including fuel prices, medical expenses, utilities and daily household spending.
On infrastructure, Shah Alfie said water supply issues in Tanjung Keramat remain a major concern for residents and require urgent attention.
“I seek a clear update on efforts to stabilise water pressure in Putatan district, particularly in Tanjung Keramat,” he said.
He also highlighted severe traffic congestion in Putatan, especially along the route near Lok Kawi Camp heading towards the city centre, which he said affects residents’ daily productivity.
He called for clarification on the actual completion timeline of the Pan Borneo Highway WP06 project as well as interim alternative routes to ease congestion.
In addition, he proposed accelerating plans for the Coastal Highway from Tanjung Aru to Kuala Papar as a long-term solution.
On rail transport, he welcomed the feasibility study for a modern railway system from Putatan to Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) and Sepanggar Port, but stressed that safety in the existing rail service must be improved.
“The public expects the existing rail service to be comprehensively upgraded with stronger safety features and modern technology to safeguard lives,” he said.
He also proposed that local authorities be given a greater role in ensuring accountability in infrastructure maintenance, including verifying the quality of work carried out by concessionaires.
In addition, he suggested that standard operating procedures for local authorities be evaluated and certified by external auditors to enhance efficiency and transparency.
On housing, Shah Alfie said the gap between income levels and house prices in Sabah remains significant, necessitating more affordable housing initiatives, particularly in suburban areas such as Putatan.
He also sought clarification on the status of applications for new People’s Housing Projects (PPR) in Putatan and proposed diversifying Rumah Mesra SMJ designs to include multi-storey units in areas with limited land.
At the same time, he raised concerns over the deteriorating condition of low-cost flats in Pasir Putih, Putatan, which show serious structural damage, including cracks.
He said the situation could pose safety risks to residents if not addressed promptly.
“Most importantly, is there any allocation or special fund from the Government for the maintenance and repair of critical damage in these low-cost flats?” he asked.
He expressed appreciation for the policy speech delivered by the Head of State and gave thanks for the smooth conduct of the 17th State Election in November 2025.
