KOTA KINABALU: Implementing agencies responsible for development projects in Sabah have been urged to address obstacles promptly.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor (pic) emphasised the need for swift action to prevent delays in the state’s ongoing projects.

Currently, 1,218 projects are underway, with 25 identified as “sick” due to missed deadlines. These projects include critical initiatives in energy, water, electricity, education, health and other essential services.

Chairing the State Development Action Council (MTPNg) meeting at Menara Kinabalu, Hajiji stressed the importance of prioritising and completing these public-interest projects.

He highlighted the formation of a Special Joint State-Federal Committee to monitor and address issues in development projects across Sabah.

In his opening remarks, Hajiji called on federal and state agencies to fully use the RM6.6bil allocated for Sabah under the National 2024 Budget.

This funding supports various development programmes such as flood mitigation, river rehabilitation, school construction and the building of new clinics and community markets.

Hajiji urged all departments to maximise this allocation and leverage the devolution of authority for technical agencies to implement projects costing RM50mil or less, thereby boosting the state’s economic growth.

He also called for better collaboration between federal and state agencies to enhance project quality and performance for the people’s benefit.

He noted that as of July 15, Sabah had spent RM1.791bil, or 35.46%, of its allocation under the Fourth Rolling Plan of the 12th Malaysia Plan, compared to the national performance of 43.45%.

Additionally, the Sabah Maju Jaya secretariat reported that the state was on track to meet its zero-hardcore poor target.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/24/hajiji-wants-agencies-to-address-hitches-promptly