Kota Kinabalu: The decision to hand over the implementation of 83 Rural Water Supply (BALB) projects in Sabah to the State Government may pave the way for broader coordination of rural development initiatives, including other infrastructure projects under the Federal Rural and Regional Development Ministry (KKDW).
Deputy Prime Minister cum Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said further discussions will be held soon to streamline and align the implementation of rural projects between the Federal and State Governments.
He said within two weeks, Sabah Rural Development Minister Datuk Rubin Balang is expected to visit KKDW to hold a coordination meeting with him, senior KKDW officials and senior officers from the State ministry.
“Other projects under KKDW, including infrastructure and matters related to rural development, will be discussed. Within two weeks from now, the Sabah Rural Development Minister will come to KKDW to meet with me and senior officers from both sides to resolve and coordinate implementation,” he said.
Zahid said the move reflects a proactive approach by KKDW, beginning with the BALB initiative, while the expansion to other projects will depend on the success of its implementation.
“We are starting with this because KKDW is taking a proactive step. As for other projects, we will look at the success and achievements of this programme’s implementation first,” he said when asked whether the BALB initiative marks the beginning of broader devolution of powers.
He expressed confidence that any future decisions on extending similar arrangements would involve the leadership at both Federal and State levels.
“When the time comes, I am confident that the Prime Minister, the Sabah Chief Minister and the Sarawak Premier will make announcements and provide details on further steps,” he said.
Zahid stressed that the initiative, which is also in line with the Prime Minister’s aspiration, is significant in scale and reflects strong confidence by the Madani Government in KKDW, as well as the close cooperation between the Federal and State Governments.
“This is not a small matter – it is very significant. The level of confidence is very high and this has nothing to do with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). It goes beyond that,” he said.
He emphasised that the move is not merely for optics, but is intended to ensure effective delivery on the ground for the benefit of the people.
“This proactive step is not just to show optics, but to ensure real implementation. What is most important is that stakeholders – the rakyat – will ultimately receive the full benefits,” he said.
