Kota kinabalu: Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Petagas state seat, Datuk Awang Husaini Sahari, is prioritising affordable housing and upgraded basic infrastructure, as well as better education and healthcare facilities, should he be given the mandate in the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election. The former Putatan Member of Parliament said that his immediate focus would be to address the rapid population growth in Petagas, which is placing significant pressure on existing infrastructure capacity.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Awang Husaini highlighted that Petagas, being the closest suburb to Kota Kinabalu, has become a focal point for workers from outside the city seeking housing. He suggested the potential development of more People’s Housing Programmes (PPRs) to accommodate this influx. The sharp population increase also necessitates road expansion, river-deepening works, and larger school capacities to ease congestion and ensure sufficient access to education.

On healthcare, Awang Husaini emphasized the need for upgraded treatment facilities to cope with the rising number of patients, including expanding the main polyclinic and establishing new clinics. He noted that existing clinics are nearly overcrowded due to significant population growth.

Awang Husaini also expressed his commitment to supporting small traders and young entrepreneurs by guiding them to access government incentives and facilities. He pointed out the challenge in the community’s awareness and understanding of obtaining or utilizing these resources effectively.

He further stated that local community leaders should serve as facilitators to help small traders engage with local authorities. By negotiating solutions between traders, local government, and community leaders, Awang Husaini believes outcomes can be achieved that benefit all parties involved.

Awang Husaini is facing a challenging 10-cornered clash, which includes the incumbent – his older brother, Datuk Awang Ahmad Shah – who is contesting as an independent candidate.