Need for RM1.2 billion supplementary budget questioned
Published on: Tue, Jul 08, 2025
By: Abbey Junior Text Size: Alias also questioned whether the RM54 million in equity investment under the development budget was meant for troubled government-linked companies (GLCs) and called for full disclosure of all GLCs that have received state equity injections since 2020. Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Government's proposed RM1.186 billion supplementary budget was questioned in the State Assembly on Monday, with Sekong Assemblyman Alias Sani warning against extravagant spending while many Sabahans still lack basic needs such as water. He reminded the House that the money being allocated belongs to the people — not the ruling party — and urged transparency and prudence in how public funds are managed. 'This is not money from the government or the ruling party, this is the people's money — including the people of Sekong,' he said. Alias raised concerns over several allocations within the supplementary budget, including an additional RM6.5 million for 'celebrations and major events,' RM13.85 million for temporary political appointments under the UPPM scheme, and RM600 million in statutory fund contributions — all while the rakyat continue to struggle with rising costs and inconsistent access to basic infrastructure. 'Is it reasonable to spend RM1.17 million a month on flights for the Head of State and the Chief Minister, while the people are struggling to pay their bills?' he asked, referring to the RM5.87 million set aside for official helicopter and jet use. Alias also questioned whether the RM54 million in equity investment under the development budget was meant for troubled government-linked companies (GLCs) and called for full disclosure of all GLCs that have received state equity injections since 2020. He highlighted the ongoing water woes in Sandakan, including in his constituency, and asked if the RM41.5 million pipe system upgrade and RM25 million allocated for water concessionaires would finally bring relief to affected areas. 'What about our pipe systems in Sekong? In Sandakan? Will this fix the endless water supply issues in our villages, housing estates, PPRs, and public buildings?' he asked. Alias also cited a recent protest by residents of Taman Permata over water shortages and a viral video showing a mother crying for help after giving birth with no water at home, pointing to these as signs of government and concessionaire failures. 'People don't care whose fault it is — they blame the government,' he said. He proposed that the State Government upload detailed breakdowns of supplementary expenditure online to allow public access and scrutiny, saying this would improve transparency and trust. 'Sabah is not the property of those in power. It is the rightful inheritance of all Sabahans — regardless of race, religion or language,' he said. 'Our fight to make Sabah a land where integrity prevails over corruption and progress is shared by all must never end.' * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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