KOTA KINABALU: Sabah must move quickly to integrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles into its infrastructure development, said State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong at the 9th Sabah International Surveyors’ Congress on Tuesday.
Speaking through State Land and Survey Department director Datuk Sr Bernard Liew, he said Sabah is at a pivotal stage where development must balance climate risks, land challenges and transparent governance.
He called for a digital-driven land administration system, stronger governance, and infrastructure designed with life-cycle sustainability, especially due to Sabah’s environmental conditions.
Safar also highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence for predictive planning and asset management.
He urged legal reforms to support urban and environmental challenges, and stressed that future infrastructure must protect the environment, uphold indigenous rights and ensure accountability.
Safar reminded industry professionals that surveyors play a key role in reshaping Sabah’s future through transparent, resilient and sustainable development.
