KOTA KINABALU: Sandakan has been identified as a key focus of development in the state under the 13th Malaysia Plan as the Federal Government continues its commitment to strengthen development in Sabah, says Datuk Mustapha Sakmud (pic).
The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak) said a total of 39 projects worth RM2.17bil have been earmarked for the district in the east coast of Sabah.
This includes strategic sectors such as road infrastructure, water supply, education, security and environmental conservation, he added.
Of these, Mustapha said 26 projects are currently in the implementation phase, 12 are in post implementation, and one has been completed.
Among the high‑impact projects underway are the construction of the Semawang-Tanjung Kuala-Gum‑Gum road, the Sandakan sewage treatment plant, Armed Forces family housing and the upgrading of the district’s water supply system.
“For 2026 alone, RM213.32mil has been channelled to finance these projects. The majority of the projects are progressing according to schedule.
“It proves that the government is not only attentive towards Sabah’s development needs but is translating them into concrete action,” he said.
Mustapha added that the government will continue to ensure every project is implemented effectively, transparently and delivers direct benefits to the people.
