KOTA KINABALU: Sabah lawmakers should demonstrate greater professionalism and unity in the face of mounting economic pressures, says National Consumer Foundation Malaysia Sabah chapter chairman David Chan.
Expressing disappointment over the conduct and tone of recent debates in the just concluded Sabah state assembly sitting, Chan urged elected representatives to rise above political distractions and focus on the real issues affecting the people.
“We are currently facing a global economic crisis, exacerbated by the ongoing US trade war and rising export tariffs. These factors are fuelling inflation and driving up the cost of living.
“At a time when Malaysians are struggling to make ends meet, our leaders must act with integrity and purpose,” he said in a statement Friday (April 18).
Chan stressed that the public expects lawmakers to not only perform their duties with professionalism but to demonstrate a serious commitment to the welfare of the rakyat.
Among the key issues he highlighted was food security, which he described as “no longer a choice, but a necessity”.
He called for bold and strategic government policies to reduce Malaysia’s dependence on food imports, including greater investment in local agriculture and support for farmers.
“We need to build a resilient domestic food supply chain and strengthen food sovereignty. Only then can we ensure a stable and affordable food supply for all,” he said.
Chan also urged lawmakers to champion stronger consumer protection measures.
This includes the enforcement of price controls, transparent food safety standards, and clear regulatory frameworks to ensure consumers are not exploited.
“The voice of the people must be heard, and their well-being must be defended. Consumer protection is not an afterthought, it must be a national priority,” he stressed.
Chan noted that all state assemblymen, regardless of political affiliation, should practise what they always preach - to put the people first.
“As the economic storm continues, lawmakers must set aside their differences and work together for the prosperity of Sabah and the nation.
"The rakyat are watching. Let us not disappoint them,” he said.
