KOTA KINABALU: Civil servants must be proactive, especially when addressing issues affecting the well-being of the people, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
“I want all of you to be responsive and sensitive to the needs of the rakyat,” he said during a meeting with permanent secretaries, department heads, district officers, and local council leaders at Menara Kinabalu on Tuesday (Feb 11).
He stressed the importance of swift project implementation, stressing that approved initiatives must not be delayed, calling for reducing bureaucracy by streamlining processes, particularly in resolving infrastructure and basic amenities issues, such as water and electricity.
On development, Hajiji highlighted that the State Government’s strategic initiatives had significantly boosted Sabah’s revenue to RM7bil last year under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan.
Investment-friendly policies have also driven economic growth, he said, pointing out that the Sipitang Oil and Gas Industrial Park (SOGIP) is fully occupied, while the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) is nearing full capacity.
He also noted the success of the Commercial Collaboration Agreement (CCA) with Petronas, which has enabled Sabah to benefit more from the oil and gas sector.
“The State Government is negotiating for a larger share of industry benefits. This has never been achieved before, and we must sustain this momentum with collective support and effort,” he said.
To enhance efficiency, Hajiji announced the State Cabinet’s approval for hiring more professionals, particularly engineers for the Works and Water Departments.
“These new appointments aim to resolve persistent issues, including water shortages,” he said.
He also directed the Water Department to submit a comprehensive report on the Sandakan water crisis, noting that only one of three water treatment plants is operational.
“The concessionaire must fulfil its contractual obligation to supply water or face action,” he warned.
