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TONGOD: The State Government continues to focus on rural development through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development plan, including ensuring Tongod is not left behind in the state’s progress.

Chief Minister Hajiji Noor said Tongod had recorded significant progress in infrastructure development from last year until mid-this year, including road connectivity, the economy, education and sustainable tourism potential.

He said the government remained committed to strengthening road networks linking Tongod with surrounding districts such as Keningau, Telupid, Sandakan and Tawau to improve mobility and stimulate downstream economic growth, while also encouraging modern agricultural development and commercial farming.

Speaking when officiating the Tongod Kaamatan Festival celebrations at Dewan Terbuka Dataran Rakyat Tongod on Wednesday, Hajiji said the State Government was also prioritising human capital development through investments in education and skills training, especially for rural youths.

He said Tongod’s natural assets, including the Imbak Canyon Conservation Area, had strong potential to support sustainable eco-tourism development, while water supply issues in the district would be addressed through Rural Water Supply projects implemented by the State Government using allocations channelled by the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development.