Kota belud: Former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak announced that development in the Usukan state seat would prioritize affordable housing and job opportunities for youth if Barisan Nasional (BN) secures a victory in the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election (PRN).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Salleh, 68, who is defending the seat, stated that the state election presents a chance for him and BN to outline Usukan’s development path, which has been planned with a comprehensive approach for the residents’ well-being. As Sabah UMNO treasurer, he emphasized that youth housing is a central focus, with plans to implement a zero-down payment concept and a rent-to-own scheme to make home ownership more accessible for young people.
Salleh elaborated on the housing initiative, saying, “We plan to develop housing in Kota Belud that does not require advance payments or down payments. We have introduced a concept where, once you are offered a home, you can move in without paying a down payment. and secondly, we will introduce a rent-to-own system.” He highlighted the importance of this initiative, noting that many youths from the Kota Belud district who work in Kota Kinabalu face high rental costs in the city.
With the completion of the Pan Borneo Highway, travel between Kota Belud and Kota Kinabalu is expected to become smoother, allowing youths working in the state capital to take advantage of the affordable housing schemes in Kota Belud. This infrastructure improvement is expected to support Salleh’s housing initiative by making commuting more feasible.
In addition to housing, Salleh pointed to the tourism sector in the Usukan constituency, especially on Pulau Mantanani, as a significant economic opportunity. He noted that developing more accommodation facilities could generate economic benefits, as tourists currently visit Kota Belud for day trips without contributing to the local economy overnight.
The broader Usukan development master plan also focuses on essential needs such as water, electricity, roads, and internet connectivity, which are crucial for the constituency’s overall development. Salleh expressed confidence in his service record and the consistent development framework for Usukan, which he believes provides a strong foundation for defending the seat, previously won with a 4,298-vote majority.
He further commented on the six-cornered contest in the election, describing it as a competition of policies and future offerings for Sabah, rather than just a clash of candidates. He underscored the importance of political engagement being based on decorum, values, and healthy competition, rather than personalities or sentiments.
Salleh also addressed the challenges from younger candidates, asserting that politics is defined by one’s ability to provide solutions, demonstrate wisdom, and deliver tangible results for the people, rather than age. The Election Commission (EC) has set November 29 as polling day, with early voting scheduled for November 25.