PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has asserted that his administration has contributed more to Sabah than any of his predecessors, with development allocations to the state increasing significantly since he took office nearly three years ago.
Speaking at the launch of the “Rancakkan Madani” programme at the Sabah International Convention Centre, Anwar said his frequent visits to the state were motivated by the need to support its people, rather than for personal or political gain. “
In the three years I have been prime minister, I have come to Sabah more often than any of my predecessors… not to seek timber concessions, contracts, or projects; I came to help the people of Sabah,” New straits Times reported him saying.
Anwar highlighted that the federal government’s expenditure in Sabah had exceeded the state’s revenue collection, addressing concerns over Sabah’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement.
“For example, if we collect RM10 billion in taxes from Sabah, we return RM17 billion in spending — for schools, hospitals, border security and defence,” he explained.
He emphasised that the Madani government remained committed to fair and transparent governance, ensuring Sabah’s development pace catches up with other states, particularly in infrastructure such as roads, schools, and healthcare.
“I am a son of Penang. If I were to think based on sentiment, I would channel more to my home state. But, no… I am the prime minister of Malaysia. There are still many poor people in Sabah, damaged roads and schools that need attention. That is our responsibility,” he said.
Earlier, Anwar visited Tamu Jalan Gaya to engage with local traders and micro-businesses, sampling traditional foods and interacting with the community.
He was accompanied by Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz and Minister of Communications Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
The prime minister’s visit included stops at the Kota Kinabalu City Hall market stalls and the Sabah Tourism Board building, before attending the Rancakkan Madani Sabah programme at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
Anwar is scheduled to continue his tour in Tawau and to attend meetings related to the 17th Sabah state election later today. - November 9, 2025
