KOTA KINABALU: The increased allocation for Sabah in the Madani 2025 Budget will be instrumental in supporting crucial infrastructure and community development across the state, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
In an immediate response to the budget announcement, which was unveiled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Friday (Oct 18), Hajiji commended the Unity Government's progressive approach to fostering economic growth and ensuring the well-being of the people.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the proposed allocation of RM6.7bil for Sabah in 2025 represents a modest 0.45% increase compared to this year’s RM6.67bil.
"This is sufficient to continue with the development projects during the final year of the 12th Malaysia Plan next year," he said after watching the live telecast of the national Budget tabling at Menara Kinabalu, here.
Also present were Sabah Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun and State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong.
Hajiji also expressed gratitude for the Federal Government's recognition of Sabah’s rights to development, as outlined in the 1963 Malaysia Agreement (MA63).
He also welcomed the decision to double the interim special payment for Sabah from RM300mil to RM600mil million in 2025, a move included in the national budget.
"Sabah appreciates the Federal Government’s ongoing focus on reducing regional development disparities through essential infrastructure improvements, including roads, water supply, and electricity," he said.
Among the highlights, Hajiji pointed to the issuance of the acceptance letter for the 17 project packages under the Pan Borneo Sabah 1B Phase, worth RM9.7bil.
These include road alignments such as Kota Belud to Kudat, Tawau to Kampung Lot M, and Telupid to Ranau.
Additionally, the finalisation of the Sabah Sarawak Link Road Phase, valued at RM7.4bil, was another major development, with two packages already awarded and the remaining contracts expected to be finalised by the end of this year.
Other significant allocations for Sabah include funds for upgrading Tawau Airport and addressing the issue of dilapidated schools in the state, which are vital for enhancing infrastructure and education.
“The 2025 National Budget reflects the strength of Malaysia's economy and the government's commitment to driving further growth,” Hajiji said.
