TAWAU: Requests for development allocations can be discussed amicably and harmoniously between the federal and state governments, rather than through hostility, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said it is normal for states to request allocations for development purposes.
“This is normal but not through hostility or condemnation. We negotiate and find good solutions, choose elected representatives who can voice our interests, not divide us.
“This is my message. If we love our country and love our state, we must strengthen our unity,” he said when closing the state-level Madani Rakyat programme yesterday, Bernama reported.
The Prime Minister gave an assurance that efforts will not be spared to realise Sabah’s potential to become a developed state.
He said this could be achieved through close cooperation between the federal and state governments, particularly in championing the people’s welfare.
Anwar also rebuked leaders who had held high-ranking positions, including in Parliament, but often spoke of developing Sabah through confrontation with the peninsula or the Federal Government.
“The peninsula will not progress, Sarawak will not progress, Sabah will not progress if we do not unite and work together to uplift this nation. We must truly understand this.
“Look at other countries, every day there is news of division between races, between regions, between religions. Why? Because leaders incite division,” he said.
The Prime Minister said those currently in power must do their utmost to safeguard the people’s welfare and resolve their problems, rather than follow in the footsteps of leaders who only know how to condemn others after losing power.
He said the people, especially in Sabah, were affected by many issues, including water and electricity supply, healthcare, roads and education facilities for their children.
“Which is why facilities such as schools, clinics and key projects like the Pan Borneo Highway must be completed for the benefit of the people and not be allowed to face unnecessary delays,” said Anwar.
The Prime Minister said the government had implemented 144 development projects in Sabah to date, involving a total allocation of RM14bil.
The projects include the upgrading of Tawau Hospital and Lahad Datu Prison, the construction of the Sepanggar Bay container port and the Sabah Heart Institute in Kota Kinabalu.
“We are doing what’s best for the people, addressing issues such as electricity and energy costs, education for children, toilet upgrades, science labs and attending to the needs of police and armed forces personnel,” he said.
“We will continue to do our best to develop Sabah, from enhancing connectivity to AI, digital initiatives, and eradicating poverty.”
