THE Sabah government should increase development allocations for the Pantai Manis state constituency to address infrastructure and economic needs, its assemblyman Datuk Pengiran Saifuddin Pengiran Tahir Petra said.
He said additional funding should prioritise public infrastructure, road networks, drainage systems, economic facilities and tourism projects to drive growth in the area.
Pengiran Saifuddin said the RM1.612 billion supplementary allocation under the Supplementary Supply Bill (2026) provided an opportunity to accelerate development and improve public services.
He said previous projects, including upgrades to Papar District Masjid, coastal erosion mitigation works in Kg Kuala and a new fishermen’s jetty, had benefited residents.
However, he said more funding was needed to repair damaged village roads, especially in Kg Buang Sayang, where potholes and poor access remain major concerns.
He also called for improved drainage and flood mitigation measures in flood-prone areas such as Benoni and Takis.
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New developments, he said, should be aligned with flood mitigation plans to prevent impacts on existing communities.
Pengiran Saifuddin also urged urgent action to address riverbank erosion along Sungai Padang through the construction of retaining walls.
To boost the local economy, he proposed better facilities for traders, fishermen and entrepreneurs, including four covered halls at strategic tamu locations.
He said the facilities would provide more suitable spaces for businesses while improving basic amenities.
He also proposed community-based tourism projects, including the Papar Town Riverfront development and improved lighting for the Papar Yellow Bridge.
Pengiran Saifuddin said such initiatives would enhance tourism appeal and create more economic opportunities for residents.
He expressed support for the Supplementary Supply Bill (2026), saying the additional funds would help ensure development projects in Sabah benefit the people.
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