Kota Kinabalu: Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for Tanjung Aru, Datuk Chan Foong Hin, said Pulau Gaya residents have been left behind for the past two electoral terms.
He said PH will provide free boat transport for all SK Pulau Gaya and SMK Pulau Gaya students throughout the school year.
This initiative, he said, aims to ensure students can travel safely, smoothly and without additional cost.
To further strengthen educational facilities, Chan highlighted that the Madani Government has approved RM260 million to build a new education complex – replacing the vulnerable water-village schools that frequently face storm damage and coastal erosion.
Earlier this month, Chan and Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh conducted a site visit to review the proposed development area.
The proposed complex will include a complete reconstruction of SK Pulau Gaya and SMK Pulau Gaya, each equipped with 36 classrooms, a main hall, sports field, and a range of supporting facilities.
Chan expressed confidence that the project will provide a safer, more conducive learning environment, and ensure that students no longer need to rent sports fields in town for co-curricular activities.
Chan also stressed the urgent need for modern digital access comparable to other urban areas.
He said many Pulau Gaya residents continue to struggle with poor internet connectivity, which disrupts daily activities. Chan himself has experienced difficulties sending messages and making calls during his visits to the island.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), has approved the construction of a 30-metre telecommunications tower with full 5G coverage in Kampung Kasuapan – a significant step forward in modernising Pulau Gaya’s network infrastructure.
Chan affirmed that these initiatives reflect PH’s commitment to ensuring the Pulau Gaya community is no longer sidelined from basic development.
He stressed that residents deserve the same modern facilities and opportunities available to any urban community.
“The people of Pulau Gaya deserve equal opportunities. With Madani government’s support, we can ensure no community is left behind in the nation’s development,” he said.
