Najib: Pan-Borneo Highway the catalyst for Sabah and Sarawak's economic growth

PETALING JAYA: The Pan-Borneo Highway will be a catalyst for economic growth in Sabah and Sarawak, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

"The Pan-Borneo Highway, which has just been approved is a mega project that will connect the main cities of Sabah and Sarawak.

"If we see how the North-South Highway opened up opportunities for development and improved communication between towns in the peninsula, the Pan-Borneo Highway will do the same when it is built," said Najib in his Malaysia Day message.

Najib added he was confident the project would be a catalyst which would transform the lives and landscape of Sabah and Sarawak and generate economic growth in both states.

"My dream is to see balanced and fair development in the Government's efforts to close the gap between the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak. I will ensure that every layer of society is not sidelined in our efforts to develop Malaysia as a high-income society, including the lower 40%. We will defend our sovereignty and continue efforts to develop our country and develop every race," said Najib.

He added that the decision of the people and leaders of Sabah and Sarawak to form Malaysia 52 years ago was a step that fulfilled the dreams of all.

"We succeeded in forging an identity as a prosperous nation made up of different cultures and traditions. What other country has united multi-racial communities like Malaysia? We have Malays, Chinese, Indians, Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, Kadazandusun, Bajau, Murut and others. Our differences have not stopped us from living in harmony," said Najib.