KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor has called on all civil servants tasked with responsibilities to be attentive to the issues affecting the well-being of the rakyat.
During a meeting with permanent secretaries, heads of departments, district officers, and local council heads at Menara Kinabalu yesterday, he stated, “I want all of you to be proactive and sensitive to the needs of the rakyat.”
He emphasized the importance of implementing all approved projects for the benefit of the people as quickly as possible. The Chief Minister urged the need to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles by simplifying processes, particularly in addressing infrastructure and basic amenities issues, such as water and electricity.
On another note, Hajiji highlighted the State Government’s development strategies aimed at benefiting the people. He noted that the initiatives under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan had successfully generated revenue of RM7 billion for the state last year. He pointed out that investment-friendly initiatives have attracted significant investments to Sabah, with the Sipitang Oil and Gas Park (SOGIP) now fully occupied, and the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) nearing full occupation.
Additionally, he mentioned that the Commercial Collaborative Agreement (CCA) with Petronas has allowed Sabah to benefit from the oil and gas industry. The Chief Minister indicated that the State Government is in discussions to secure more shares and benefits from this sector. He remarked, “This has never been achieved before, and the momentum must continue with the support and efforts of all.”
Hajiji also announced that the State Cabinet has approved the hiring of more professionals, particularly engineers, needed at the Works and Water Departments. He stated that the positions are currently being filled in both departments to ensure work efficiency. “With the hiring of these staff, it is hoped that problems like water woes, among others, can be resolved,” he explained.
Furthermore, he requested a complete and prompt report from the Water Department regarding the water supply shortage in Sandakan, as only one of the three water treatment plants is operational. He stressed that “the concessionaire must fulfill its obligations as part of the contract to supply water to consumers in the district or face action.”-pr/BNN
