Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says his presence in Sabah is to fulfil trust, not personal gain, citing electricity control return and RM1.2 billion funding
KOTA KINABALU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised that his presence in Sabah is not for personal profit but to fulfil the trust of safeguarding the rights and future of the state’s people.
He stated that throughout more than a decade of holding various government positions, he never profited from Sabah’s resources.
“I have been a minister for more than 10 years, but I have never taken a single log from Sabah, I have not taken any contracts, and I have not taken any land,” Anwar said during the PMX Sayang Sabah Mega Talk at a hotel in the Petagas State Assembly area.
He explained that his governance principles have always been based on integrity and public service.
The Prime Minister highlighted the MADANI Government’s commitment to Sabah’s development through historic steps like returning electricity regulatory control to the state.
This move aligns with the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and represents a significant transfer of authority.
According to Anwar, the state government subsequently reported insufficient funds to resolve electricity supply problems.
The Federal Government responded by channeling an additional RM1.2 billion to ensure comprehensive resolution of power issues.
“This is Sabah’s right and we returned it, but when Sabah said they didn’t have enough money, we immediately helped,” he stated.
More than 1,000 solar electricity poles have been installed in Sabah’s interior areas through the Solar MADANI initiative.
Anwar noted that Sabah was among the earliest recipients of this renewable energy program.
The Prime Minister also addressed infrastructure concerns after personally experiencing potholed roads during working visits.
He assured that the Federal Government takes public complaints about basic infrastructure seriously.
On economic matters, Anwar highlighted the government’s commitment to improving workers’ living standards through minimum wage increases.
The minimum wage has risen from RM1,200 to RM1,500 and now stands at RM1,700.
He expressed optimism about further increases if Malaysia’s economic position continues to improve.
“If the economic situation is good, I am confident we can raise the salary further,” Anwar concluded. – Bernama
