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SABAH Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called on civil servants to take a more proactive approach in addressing issues affecting the well-being of the people.
He emphasised the importance of eliminating bureaucratic barriers and simplifying processes, particularly in areas such as infrastructure and basic amenities, including water and electricity supply.
Hajiji urged civil servants to be more sensitive to the needs of the rakyat (citizens) and to prioritise the swift implementation of projects that directly benefit the public.
"All approved projects intended for the people must be carried out promptly. I expect everyone to be proactive and responsive to the needs of the rakyat," Bernama cited him saying in a statement issued today.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the state government's development strategies aimed at improving the lives of Sabahans.
He noted that these efforts have contributed significantly to the state’s revenue, which reached RM7 billion last year, thanks to initiatives under the *Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya* development plan.
Hajiji pointed out that the state's investment-friendly policies have successfully attracted significant investments. He highlighted the full occupancy of the Sipitang Oil and Gas Park (SOGIP) and the near-complete occupancy of the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) as proof of Sabah's growing appeal to investors.
Additionally, Hajiji stressed that the Commercial Collaborative Agreement (CCA) with Petronas has further benefited the state, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
The state government is also in negotiations to secure a larger share of the industry's profits for Sabah.
"This has never been accomplished before, and we must continue to build on this momentum with the support and efforts of all parties," he said.
The Chief Minister also revealed that the State Cabinet had approved the hiring of additional professionals, especially engineers, for the state's works and water departments.
These new hires aim to improve the efficiency of these departments, ensuring that crucial services like water supply are delivered effectively.
"Increasing the number of skilled staff will help address persistent issues such as water shortages," Hajiji explained.
On the matter of water supply issues, Hajiji specifically requested a detailed and urgent report from the Water Department regarding the ongoing water shortage in Sandakan. He noted that only one of the three water treatment plants in the area is currently operational.
"The concessionaire must fulfill its contractual obligation to provide a stable water supply to consumers in the district. Failure to do so will result in appropriate action," he warned.
Hajiji’s statements underscore his commitment to addressing key issues affecting Sabahans and ensuring that government services are delivered efficiently and effectively. – February 11, 2025