Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan stated that the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development plan, launched by the state government in 2021, has seen numerous achievements. Nizam, who is the Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) information chief, emphasized that these successes have been well-documented and communicated through various channels like elected representatives and state ministries.
In response to claims made by Sabah Umno’s Libaran MP Datuk Suhaimi Nasir that the public was unaware of the SMJ development plan, Nizam dismissed such allegations. He highlighted that information regarding SMJ achievements has been disseminated through government agencies like district offices, Community Development Leader Units (UPPMs), and government media units, including digital media.
Nizam mentioned, “The easiest way to access information related to SMJ is through its official website. Had the Libaran MP taken the time to search for information through these channels, he would not have made such a statement.”
He continued by emphasizing the government’s responsibility in spreading vital information, urging elected representatives like Suhaimi to be better informed before making public statements. Nizam concluded, “I hope moving forward, Suhaimi and other Opposition members will conduct thorough research before issuing unsubstantiated remarks.”
Suhaimi, who also served as the Sabah Umno information chief, had previously called for the state government to clarify the SMJ development plan’s impact on issues such as basic infrastructure and poverty. He questioned what the state’s development plan had achieved for the people since its inception by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor on March 20, 2021.
Nizam defended the SMJ development plan for 2021-2025, citing progress made in areas like resolving basic amenities issues such as water supply and electricity. He also mentioned the state’s commitment to completing the Pan Borneo Highway project and other road linkages outside that project that are currently under construction.
The efforts to reduce hardcore poverty in the state were also highlighted by Nizam, explaining ongoing initiatives like providing business capital assistance, offering homes through the Rumah Mesra Sabah Maju Jaya program, and creating job opportunities for youth from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Additionally, Nizam noted the launch of the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan 2040 last September, aimed at transitioning the state’s energy sources from non-renewable to hydro power. He stressed the importance of hydroelectricity for renewable energy in Sabah and mentioned the ongoing Ulu Padas hydroelectric project in Tenom district, which is set for completion by 2029.
Once operational, the Ulu Padas facility is expected to contribute significant hydro capacity and water supply to the region. Nizam also highlighted improvements in water supply capacity at key treatment plants like Telibong and Kogopon, which will benefit various areas in Sabah.
Overall, Nizam reiterated that the Sabah government has been actively working towards achieving the objectives set forth in the SMJ development plan and reassured the public of continuous progress in various sectors.
