A SABAH assemblyman has urged the Sabah government to expedite its existing pledges to develop Pulau Banggi, citing ongoing challenges faced by the island's residents due to the lack of development.
Banggi assemblyman Datuk Mohammad Mohamarin, who switched political allegiance from Warisan to GRS in 2023 to better serve his constituents, expressed confidence in the coalition but emphasised the need to address long-standing issues.
“I believe GRS has the ability and commitment to deliver, but Pulau Banggi has waited long enough for meaningful development,” he said during the debate on the 2025 Sabah State Budget.
He called on the state government to revise the RM80,000 allocation per house under the Rumah Mesra SMJ initiative, citing high logistical costs due to transporting materials 40km across the sea from Kudat to Pulau Banggi.
“The allocated amount does not reflect the logistical challenges faced by contractors. Adjustments are needed to ensure both residents and contractors are satisfied,” he said.
Mohammad also highlighted the delay in constructing a water treatment plant promised in May by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
“People keep asking when it will start. This project is crucial for our residents, who continue to face water shortages,” he said.
Other projects, including the construction of a public jetty and road upgrades, remain in the tendering phase with no clear timeline for completion.
“The funds are there, but the implementation has been slow. We need clearer timelines to meet the needs of our people,” he added.
Education is another pressing concern, with eight of the island’s 14 schools lacking electricity and many in poor condition.
“Promises have been made for years, but our children are still studying in schools without basic facilities,” he said.
He also noted the underutilised 3,000 hectares of land under the Sabah Land Development Board since 2018, urging the government to implement sustainable projects like aquaculture and agriculture to boost the local economy.
“Pulau Banggi has so much potential to become an economic hub if sustainable projects are implemented. These plans need to move forward,” he said.
Despite his concerns, Mohammad reaffirmed his support for the GRS government, acknowledging ongoing efforts such as the allocation of funds for a public library and road upgrades under the 2025 budget.
“I trust that GRS will deliver for Pulau Banggi. The people’s needs must remain a priority,” he said. – November 19, 2024
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