KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 27 2026, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has defended the higher development allocations for Sabah and Sarawak, saying both states face major infrastructure challenges due to their geography.
He said development funding should reflect the needs of each state. In parts of Sabah, for example, roads remain in poor condition despite the state’s relatively small population compared with some other states.
Anwar made the remarks during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday. He was responding to a supplementary question from Beluran MP Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee about reports of reduced or withheld funding for certain projects in Sabah and Sarawak.
Development Funding Must Reflect Local Needs
Anwar said the development needs of Sabah and Sarawak should not be viewed from the perspective of just one state.
He also stressed that the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) represents a national commitment. Therefore, all parties have a shared responsibility to protect the interests of Malaysians.
Ronald had asked whether political differences had affected funding decisions for projects under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW).
In response, Anwar clarified that the development allocations announced for Sabah and Sarawak under Budget 2027 did not include the KKDW projects raised by the MP.
He added that the projects announced by the government had been approved following the latest assessments.
Stronger Oversight Needed for Public Funds
Anwar acknowledged that government funding may not be enough to meet every development need. However, he said effective management is essential to ensure that public money is spent properly.
He stressed that procurement processes and contract awards must be closely monitored. This would help prevent financial leakages and ensure that projects follow the required rules.
The government must also assess whether contractors have the capacity to complete their projects successfully.
Anwar said these measures would help direct development funds towards approved priorities and ensure projects are carried out effectively.
Source: PressKL | Rewritten By Minutesmy
