KOTA KINABALU: Many development projects in Sabah cannot commence yet even though allocations have been set aside, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said this shows that coordination between federal and state agencies were vital in the smooth implementation of projects for the people.

He said this year, over RM1.1bil has been allocated for rural development in Sabah, an amount which is 20% or RM290.1mil higher compared with 2023.

"The Prime Minister had instructed all projects to start as soon as possible, so we must do this but without going against state procedures," said Zahid.

He said this after chairing this year’s first coordination meeting between the Rural and Regional Development Ministry and state exco members chairing the rural and regional development portfolio (Mexclub) here on Friday (May 10).

Citing an example, he said rural folks in Sabah badly require proper water supply but how would they get what they need if the Federal government provides pipes but without the water supply from the state?

"That is what I mean by coordination. Coordination is needed for all projects to run smoothly not only in Sabah, but all the other states," Zahid said, adding that state exco members must play their parts as well.

Earlier the ministry announced higher allocation for community projects and programmes for targeted groups for each state exco member from RM500,000 to RM750,000 each.

"So I hope next time these excos would not send representatives to meetings. Where is the seriousness here?" he asked.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/05/10/coordination-between-federal-and-state-agencies-key-to-implementing-projects-in-sabah