PAITAN: The 2026 Paitan District Social Unity (Turun Padang) Programme has strengthened ties between the community, leaders and government agencies while promoting unity among residents.
State Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk James Ratib said the ground engagement approach was important to ensure the voices and needs of the people continued to receive attention, with his speech delivered by his political secretary, Justinus Jalang.
James, who is also Sugut Assemblyman, said programmes such as this provided opportunities for direct engagement between the people, leaders and government agencies, while fostering cooperation to develop the district and improve community well-being.
He said Sabah's diversity in ethnicity, culture, language and background was one of its greatest strengths, adding that unity should be reflected through mutual respect, community spirit and cooperation rather than remain a slogan.
James said the State Government would continue strengthening access to education, empowering youth through skills development and expanding the use of technology and innovation to ensure rural communities were not left behind in development.
