Nabawan Assemblyman Demands Swift Action on Delayed Development Projects

The assemblyman from Nabawan, Datuk Abd Ghani Mohd Yassin, has raised a number of urgent questions regarding the progress of development projects within the district. He emphasized the critical need for timely implementation to safeguard the welfare of local residents.

He initiated his inquiries by asking for an update on the Wishlist, which outlines the project list for Nabawan as part of the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (RMKe-13), submitted for consideration in early 2025, particularly concerning the upcoming budget for the next year.

Concerns Over Delays

Moreover, the assemblyman pointed out significant delays in various development projects exceeding RM500,000, using the examples of the Nabawan town bridge and the Anak Negeri Nabawan (MAN) court building where progress has notably stagnated.

“What are the underlying issues causing these delays at the agency level?” he questioned, calling for a thorough review of project management procedures and a reduction in bureaucratic obstacles between headquarters and district offices.

He also proposed raising the threshold for small-scale tenders in Sabah to align with increasing costs, aiming to maximize the impact of high-value projects across different departments, agencies, and district offices.

Prioritizing Rural Development

“Rural areas warrant priority and sufficient allocations, especially as the government strives to enhance socio-economic conditions and stimulate the grassroots economy under the Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 development plan,” he stated during the debate on the state 2026 budget speech at the State Assembly Sitting.

The assemblyman underscored the necessity of basic infrastructure for the well-being of residents, highlighting that Nabawan, being the fourth-largest district in the state, including the small district of Pagalungan near the Indonesian border, still faces many urgent needs.

He recalled addressing these matters during the 16th state assembly session, particularly concerning the delayed upgrades of two bridges.

He urged responsible agencies, such as JKR, JANS, SESB, and others, to accelerate the progress of pending projects.

“Please address issues that can be resolved immediately and do not postpone developments that impact the welfare of the people,” he urged.

Infrastructure and Utility Issues

Other issues raised included the repair of village roads under state supervision, as well as the upgrading of main roads and former logging or agricultural roads. Notably, the 12-kilometre gravel road from Kg. Pemunterian to Kg. Ulu Mesopoh remains unpaved despite repeated media coverage.

Additionally, he recommended constructing concrete gabions along riverbanks in Pagalungan to mitigate erosion and protect homes, referencing past landslides that destroyed several houses.

On the topic of utilities, he emphasized complaints regarding electricity and clean water supply, particularly in remote villages.

“Some communities have long awaited electricity connections with no action taken. During the rainy season, the water supplied by JANS in Nabawan becomes murky if not disrupted. This situation requires immediate attention,” he stated.

Proposals for Improvement

He suggested providing temporary alternative supplies, such as BELB and BALBA, for remote areas while permanent solutions are being established.

The assemblyman also highlighted the need for repairs to the Anak Negeri court buildings, community halls, mini-halls, and suspension bridges, stressing that public facilities must be maintained to ensure safety and well-being.

Furthermore, he raised concerns about public recreational centers and facilities for sports, culture, or leisure, urging for the monitoring and repair of existing infrastructure and better coordination between central and district agencies to prioritize these projects.

Abd Ghani inquired about the current status of the Nabawan land lot scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Sabah (MAFFI), questioning whether the state government plans to gradually allocate the developed land to local communities.

He also sought updates on the official gazettement of the Tatalaan Nabawan sub-district, citing demographic changes and the need for administrative efficiency as reasons for urgency.