Kota Kinabalu: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (Petra), Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s strong commitment to supporting Sabah’s development and strengthening media freedom.
Fadillah said that the Federal Government, through Petra, had allocated RM8.799 billion for Sabah up to June 2025.
“Sabah has received a fairly large allocation from the Federal Government…it is our commitment to resolve two key issues in Sabah – water and energy.
“Because without energy and tare, there can be no economic growth in Sabah,” he said when speaking at the Petra Engagement Session with Sabah Media 2025, here, on Sunday night.
The funds cover 86 development projects under the Fifth Rolling Plan (RP5) of the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMKe-12) to uplift infrastructure and energy-related progress in the state.
He said that the Federal Government views Sabah’s development not just as the responsibility of the state alone, but as a shared national trust.
“Sabah’s progress is the nation’s responsibility. With strong Federal-State cooperation, we can build a more prosperous, just and sustainable Malaysia,” he said.
Fadillah also recognised the media’s important role as a strategic partner in national development.
He thanked print, electronic, online and new media platforms for their continued cooperation, especially in helping to promote tourism and investment in Sabah.
The state recorded over 3.1 million tourist arrivals in 2024, a sharp rise from 2.6 million in 2023, which he attributed in part to the efforts of media in shaping positive narratives about Sabah.
He highlighted the importance of accurate and ethical journalism, particularly in shaping investor confidence and promoting national stability.
He also noted Malaysia’s climb in the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) World Press Freedom Index, where the country rose to 88th place in 2025 from 107th the year before.
“This recognition reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to nurturing a free, responsible, and progressive media ecosystem,” he said.
Fadillah introduced Petra’s top leadership team during the session and stressed that such engagements are crucial in strengthening ties between the media and government agencies.
He closed by expressing appreciation to all media professionals in Sabah for their resilience and dedication despite the challenges they face.
“With united people and a media that is free and committed to integrity, we can continue to move Sabah forward,” he added.
Source: https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/262538/rm8-79-billion-for-86-projects-in-sabah/