In order to address the water crisis in Sabah, the state government has allocated RM660 million for next year. State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun announced that RM679.85 million has been set aside in the proposed Budget 2024 to tackle the critical issue of insufficient clean water supply.
As part of the State Water Supply Programme funded by the state government, RM156.77 million will be used for immediate and short-term measures. An additional RM258.05 million will be allocated under the Federal Soft Loan Programme for medium- and long-term measures in addressing water supply issues in specific districts.
In addition, a federal grant of RM135.65 million under the Rural and Regional Development Ministry’s rural water supply programme will be utilized to enhance existing supply and build new water supply infrastructure in rural areas.
Masidi emphasized the government’s prioritization of infrastructure development programs and public amenities, aiming to strengthen the state’s economy while ensuring the comfort and well-being of its residents.
For the resolution of various basic amenities issues, a total of RM2.63 billion has been allocated. This includes RM1.72 billion for the state Works Ministry and RM886.55 million under the Finance Ministry to carry out the necessary projects.
Furthermore, RM430.84 million has been set aside for the maintenance of existing infrastructure, and RM99.07 million for the management and implementation of various physical infrastructure and sewerage facilities programs. A Federal Loan of RM169.55 million has also been allocated to continue projects under the Sabah Sewerage Scheme Programme next year.
Another allocation of RM25.24 million is designated for waterway safety and traffic control services, as well as the development of port facilities throughout Sabah. Masidi also mentioned the earmarking of RM58.62 million to enhance railway services and infrastructure.
