Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Umno Chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin described the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) as a clear recognition of Sabah’s role as a driver of rural transformation and sustainable economic growth.
The Kinabatangan MP said 13MP is not just a development roadmap but a strategic shift that places Sabah’s priorities at the core of national planning, especially through investments in agriculture, fisheries and agro-based industries.
“13MP not only reflects the intent to develop regional infrastructure and the economy, but also strengthens the principles of social justice and long-term rural economic resilience,” he said.
He pointed to the RM227 billion allocation for the economic sector, including the creation of an integrated fisheries hub and blue economy in Sabah, as a decisive step towards building a stronger local food supply chain.
He added that the plan’s focus on modernising agriculture through automation and smart technologies would bring a significant impact to rural communities across the State.
Bung also underscored several major projects listed in the 13MP, including the development of the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park, upgrading of biodiesel depots in Sandakan and Lahad Datu, and the continuation of the Pan Borneo Highway in Sabah.
“The emphasis on developing the rural workforce through TVET and targeted financing under the TVET Madani programme will shape a new generation of young agropreneurs and local technocrats, in line with 13MP’s aspiration to create 1.2 million job opportunities by 2030, including in the digital economy and smart agriculture,” he said.
He stressed that Sabah should not be viewed merely as a recipient of federal development, but as a catalyst for national progress.
“I urge the Sabah Government to proactively align the State’s strategy with RMK13 in a substantive manner so that the opportunities presented can be fully maximised by the people of Sabah,” he said.
