Don't politicise poverty: Robert
Published on: Mon, May 19, 2025 Text Size: KOTA KINABALU: Assistant Works Minister Datuk Robert Tawik ( pic ) has dismissed claims by Sabah Umno Youth that government aid to padi farmers amounts to 'empty promises', accusing the opposition of politicising rural poverty. He said real work was being done on the ground, including disbursement of the RM36 million Iada Kota Belud allocation for flood control, drainage upgrades, and land rehabilitation.
Advertisement Robert stressed that fixing systemic problems in Sabah's padi sector requires time and sustained effort, not political theatrics or instant solutions. He also criticised Sabah Umno Youth Chief Sufian Abdul Karim for misrepresenting Sabah's rice self-sufficiency level without acknowledging decades of federal underinvestment. Calling for unity, Robert urged political leaders to stop using farmers as 'photo opportunities' and instead focus on genuine cooperation to uplift rural livelihoods. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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