KUDAT: An allocation of RM4.06bil has been given to Sabah to finance the implementation of the rural water supply (BALB) projects, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said the funding of these projects, carried out directly by the state government, aims to ensure the issue of clean water supply in Sabah’s rural and outlying areas can be addressed comprehensively.
“The main problem in Sabah is the supply of clean water and electricity. It is my responsibility as the Minister of Rural and Regional Development to resolve this matter, especially in rural and outlying areas.
“I have requested the allocation from the Cabinet because development is the right of all Malaysians, whether in Sabah, Sarawak or the peninsula,” he said when opening the Rungus Cultural Festival in Matunggong.
Ahmad Zahid said his ministry will continue to monitor and provide technical support to ensure the implementation of the BALB projects is on schedule.
“People in Kudat, Kota Marudu and Pitas will benefit from this project,” he said, Bernama reported.
He said the Federal Government places special focus on basic infrastructure development and efforts to eradicate hardcore poverty in Sabah’s rural areas for the well-being of the people.
“This commitment is implemented through the channelling of various development allocations, including rural water and electricity supply projects, particularly in areas categorised as hardcore poor,” he added.
On a separate matter, Ahmad Zahid, who is also Barisan Nasional chairman, said the coalition remains open to seat swaps for the Melaka state election, as the door remains open for negotiations.
He said negotiations had not been ruled out, but the coalition would work on the principle that incumbent seats won by a party must be respected.
However, a seat swap could be made if it is mutually agreed upon.
“I have told the Melaka Chief Minister, who is also the Barisan state chairman, that the basis of any negotiation is that seats won by any party must be respected,” he said.
Zahid was responding to comments by PKR Youth chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, who urged coalition parties not to prematurely announce their intention to defend certain seats before seat negotiations had been finalised.
