Kota Kinabalu: The Gabungan Rakyat Sabah State Government will continue to support non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in their mission to improve the livelihood of Sabahans, particularly in rural areas.
State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said the efforts of these NGOs complement the state’s mission to uplift and empower rural folks and eradicate poverty.
He said the work may seem small in the eyes of some but have an impact which usually leads to positive results.
He said progress is not only measured by income but also access to basic amenities such as water, electricity and quality education.
“While Sabah has made great progress (in development), we continue to face real challenges and one of them was eradicating poverty.
“It is a big step to combat poverty by providing amenities like water or electricity,” he said.
He commended Rotary Club of Kota Kinabalu Pearl (RCKK Pearl) for their community-led initiatives at the club’s 10th Anniversary and 11th Installation Ceremony.
Present were RCKK Pearl President Datin Dr Jeanette Tambakau, Immediate Past President Chenderamata Sinteh, President-Elect Hanna Ghani, Vice President Datuk Eliza Goh, former Presidents Datuk Aminah Ambrose, Rosie Chong, Datuk Suzanna Liaw, Datuk Dr Tarsiah TZ Taman, Majella Tan, Datuk Adeline Leong and Organising Chairlady Adelina Adnan.
Masidi noted that from bringing clean water and sanitation to rural villages, to championing healthcare and education, to empowering women and protecting the environment, the club has consistently lived up to the Rotary’s ethos of “Service Above Self”.
One inspiring example of what community-led initiatives can achieve is the installation of gravity-fed water systems in remote villages, bringing clean water to tens of thousands of Sabahans,” he said.
Masidi said such project improves health and restore dignity to the people especially in rural areas that can be considered as a life-changing impact which is possible when government aspirations and grassroot leadership work closely together.
“The government alone cannot achieve this (mission). But when we walk hand in hand with committed partners like RCKK Pearl, we can complement each other’s strengths and create a multiplier effect for the benefit of the rakyat.
“I am especially encouraged to see how RCKK Pearl has become a beacon for women’s empowerment in Sabah. They are not only addressing the needs of the community but also shaping women leaders who inspire others to step forward with courage.
“When women are given the opportunity to lead, the ripple effect is truly powerful. Families grow stronger, communities become more resilient, and the state moves towards greater inclusivity and balance,” he added.
“As Finance Minister, I recognise the importance of ensuring that organisations like yours continue to flourish. That is why tonight, I am pleased to announce that the State Government will extend a donation of RM100,000 to the club.
“It is our way of saying: we see your work, we believe in your mission, and we continue to stand beside you in serving the rakyat,” he said.
Jeanette said that the club – under new leadership – will remain committed and resilient – in carrying out the existing initiatives as it is a legacy of service that touches hearts, uplifts communities, and creates lasting change.
