By WU VUIDE
KUNDASANG: Sabah’s revenue has reached historic levels, proving the strength and effectiveness of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government, said Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
He said state revenue grew from RM5.49 billion in 2021 to RM6.96 billion in 2022, RM6.97 billion in 2023 and RM6.84 billion in 2024, reflecting the positive impact of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan.
“This achievement is not just numbers. It proves the government has a strong foundation. High revenue translates into benefits for the people,” he said in his speech at the Kundasang Cabbage Festival.
Dr Joachim said the income allowed the government to roll out initiatives such as Rumah Mesra SMJ, the Sabah government scholarship (BKNS), RM300 monthly cash aid for families, and a one-off RM5,000 assistance for 643 roadside hawkers.
He added that the oil and gas sector boosted state coffers significantly through SMJ Energy Sdn Bhd, raising revenue from RM50 million to RM5.1 billion while creating over 1,000 jobs.
Strategic investments from Kibing Solar, SK Nexilis and Esteel Enterprise have also generated thousands of local job opportunities, strengthening Sabah’s position as an investment destination.
“GRS has proven itself to be a stable government that prioritises the people. If given another mandate, we will ensure these achievements continue,” he said.
Also present were Head of State Tun Musa Aman who officiated the festival, and his wife Toh Puan Faridah Tussin.
