Deputy Minister Chan Foong Hin visits Pulau Gaya by boat, addressing infrastructure gaps and promoting used cooking oil collection for extra income
KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Plantations and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin is experiencing a different campaign approach for the Tanjung Aru state seat.
The Pakatan Harapan candidate has swapped road travel for boat journeys to reach Pulau Gaya’s residents.
Chan described the constituency as unique, combining Kota Kinabalu’s most advanced shopping centres with areas reflecting urban poverty.
He highlighted Kampung Torong Logong as an example where residents lack proper roads, health clinics, electricity, clean water, and reliable internet.
“Given the development gap, these areas naturally require greater attention,” he told Bernama during a used cooking oil collection awareness briefing.
The deputy minister has visited Pulau Gaya four times this month to address residents’ daily challenges.
His vision extends beyond basic infrastructure to embracing a circular economy through used cooking oil collection.
“Used cooking oil prices range between RM2 and RM2.50 per kilogramme,” he said.
Sabah collected only 5,200 tonnes of used cooking oil this year, less than 1.5% of Malaysia’s total 380,000 tonnes output.
Chan acknowledged the difficult living conditions on the island, including schools in fragile wooden buildings over water.
Sekolah Kebangsaan Pulau Gaya and Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Pulau Gaya face erosion, strong waves, and collapse risks.
“The federal government has approved RM260 million to build a new educational complex on the mainland,” he revealed.
The proposed complex will feature 36 classrooms, a large hall, a sports field, and various supporting facilities.
Chan also addressed internet connectivity issues that hinder communication and online learning.
A 30-metre telecommunications tower with full 5G coverage has been approved for Kampung Kasuapan.
“Politics, at its heart, is about serving the people,” he concluded.
The Tanjung Aru constituency has 21,264 registered voters and will vote on November 29. – Bernama
