Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is dedicated to advancing the development of Sabah by executing significant infrastructure initiatives aimed at resolving the ‘AJK’ issues, which stand for air (water), jalan (roads), and karan (electricity), as stated by the Prime Minister’s senior political secretary Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar’s commitment is manifested through ongoing efforts by his administration to tackle these challenges, notably via the Ulu Padas Hydroelectric Dam and the Pan Borneo Highway projects. Shamsul Iskandar highlighted the Prime Minister’s focus on implementing infrastructure projects that benefit the people, in collaboration with the Sabah state government.
Shamsul Iskandar emphasized that Anwar’s dedication is evident through his visit to Sabah in December 2023, nearly a year after assuming office, to officiate the Ulu Padas Hydroelectric Dam in Tenom’s interior, showcasing his resolve to address electricity and water issues comprehensively. The project, expected to be completed by 2029, aims to generate 187.5 megawatts of electricity, enhancing Sabah’s power grid capacity by 15%, and has the potential to supply 6,000 million litres of water daily.
Furthermore, Anwar has taken decisive measures to ensure the Pan Borneo Highway project proceeds without delay, despite previous postponements by the state government. This 706-kilometre road project under Phase 1 is anticipated to significantly impact Sabah’s economy by improving the flow of goods and services between urban and rural areas, thereby connecting communities, creating job opportunities, and elevating living standards.
Addressing the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), Shamsul Iskandar noted Anwar’s genuine commitment to resolving all nine claims stipulated under the agreement, marking him as the only Prime Minister to achieve this milestone. The implementation of MA63 continues to be a priority, with negotiations and discussions facilitated through the Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council.
To date, 13 of the 29 claims under MA63 have been resolved, with nine addressed during Anwar’s administration and four under the previous Prime Minister’s tenure. The MADANI Government has allocated RM6.9 billion for Sabah’s development in Budget 2026, an increase from RM6.7 billion this year, to ensure the state’s sustained growth.