LAHAD DATU: A special committee focusing on the development of districts in Sabah’s East Coast needs to be established to ensure these areas are not left behind in terms of progress.
Sabah Umno Liaison Chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin said the formation of this board or committee is among the manifesto pledges Umno will implement if given the State’s administrative mandate.
“This is one of our new manifesto offerings, though we will finalise its name later.
“I have observed that areas like Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Tawau and Semporna seem neglected, so a dedicated committee is important to propose and decide on development projects for these districts,” he told the media at the Segama Assemblyman Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi’s Aidilfitri Open House on Sunday.
Bung said Umno has a monumental task, transforming the people’s fortunes, which requires political stability and committed leadership.
“Many make promises during campaigns but struggle to deliver after winning. Though new to Umno’s leadership, I am confident that together with principled colleagues, we can realise Sabahans’ aspirations,” he said.
“After over 60 years of independence, Sabahans still live as if they are not truly free. This must end, we do not want poverty eradicated only on paper but in reality,” he said.
He vowed Umno would strive to restore Sabah’s rightful standing, addressing issues raised by Segama Assemblyman Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi at the Federal level.
“I understand his (Mohamaddin) efforts, but the State Government has overlooked them. I will push for Federal intervention to resolve these problems,” Bung added.
Meanwhile, Mohamaddin welcomed the proposed committee, stressing its potential to bridge developmental gaps in East Coast districts like Lahad Datu.
“This initiative ensures no district is left behind. May we secure victory and governance to execute these plans, we have lagged for too long,” he said.
