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KOTA KINABALU: Telupid has been recognised as one of the happiest districts in Malaysia despite public scepticism over whether the title reflects the reality on the ground.
Its assemblyman Datuk Jonnybone Kurum (pic) remains optimistic about the district’s recognition despite public claims that the district lacks development and infrastructure.
The Malaysia Happiness Index 2025 ranked Telupid, located in central Sabah, among the country's happiest district councils, alongside Lipis (Pahang), Kuala Krai (Kelantan), Bandar Baru (Kedah), Kuala Pilah (Negri Sembilan), Jerantut (Pahang), and Jelebu (Negri Sembilan).
However, some residents have voiced doubts, arguing that Telupid remains underdeveloped and lacks essential infrastructure.
Kurum admitted he was unaware of the criteria used to assess the district’s happiness level.
“This indicator falls under the responsibility of the relevant agency. Honestly, I do not know the exact assessment guidelines used.
“I only just found out that Telupid has been declared a ‘Happy Town.’ I am currently requesting a detailed report from the District Council officers because I would also like to know the criteria,” he said when contacted on Friday (March 21).
Despite the concerns, he welcomed the recognition, adding, “I feel proud and positive that we have received this award.”
He suggested that the ranking may be based more on social life, safety, and the natural environment rather than infrastructure development.
“If it is about development, we know it is still ongoing and in progress,” he added.
The Malaysia Happiness Index 2025 was announced by Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming during the National World Happiness Day celebration on Thursday (March 20), highlighting that 75% of towns in Malaysia had achieved a “happy” level, reflecting ongoing efforts to create a more harmonious and inclusive society.
Putrajaya was named the Happiest City in the municipal and city council category.
Meanwhile, in the happiest municipal and city councils category, top-ranking areas included Bintulu (Sarawak), Temerloh (Pahang), Johor Baru (Johor), Klang (Selangor), Port Dickson (Negri Sembilan), Jasin (Melaka), Pontian (Johor), Ampang Jaya (Selangor), Batu Pahat (Johor), Melaka, and Petaling Jaya (Selangor).
Nga said the Malaysia Happiness Index had increased by 5.5 points over the last five years, from 83.34% in 2020 to 88.84% in 2025, based on a survey involving 153 local authorities.
The Happiness Index measurement was introduced in 2015 under the MURNInets system, which evaluates factors such as stress levels, health, family relationships, and satisfaction with local amenities and services.
Located about 200km from Kota Kinabalu, Telupid covers 2,210.25 square kilometres and has a population of approximately 29,704.
It consists of five sub-districts: Ulu Labuk, Pekan, Liwogu, Nangoh, and Sapi.
Telupid serves as a transit town for travellers between Sabah’s east and west coasts and is part of the Heart of Borneo initiative, an international conservation effort aimed at preserving Borneo's tropical rainforests.
