Petrus
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Budget 2026, recently tabled by the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) State Government, reflects a people-centric fiscal approach that prioritises welfare, economic resilience and sustainable development, said Vice Deputy of PGRS Moyog Division, Petrus Conrad Mojuntin.
He said the budget stands out as more than a financial document, instead portraying a sincere commitment by the state leadership to address the real challenges faced by ordinary Sabahans, from rural communities to urban workers and young graduates seeking employment opportunities.
“The theme ‘Memacu Pembangunan, Kesejahteraan Rakyat Diutamakan’ is highly relevant at a time of global economic uncertainty and inflationary pressures. Sabah’s ability to record a surplus of RM28 million is a clear indication of prudent fiscal management and strong governance under the leadership of the Chief Minister,” he said in a statement today.
According to Petrus, the announcement that Sabah has achieved zero hardcore poverty this year represents a major milestone and a moral victory for the state, as it demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring that no segment of society is marginalised or left behind.
He said Budget 2026 also reflects a strategic shift away from short-term assistance towards empowering citizens to build sustainable livelihoods, citing allocations of RM15 million for the SME-UP Assistance Programme and RM5 million for the State Entrepreneurship Programme.
“These initiatives are not merely financial aid, but investments in self-reliance, particularly for youths and single mothers, enabling them to venture into entrepreneurship and improve their socio-economic standing,” he said.
On housing, Petrus welcomed the decision to increase the quota of Rumah Mesra SMJ to 50 units per constituency, with specific allocations for individuals below the age of 40, describing it as a timely intervention to ease housing pressures faced by young families.
He also described the RM437.93 million allocation for human capital development as a forward-looking investment, particularly in strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), and high-technology skills to meet labour market demands.
“With foreign investments amounting to RM11.368 billion entering the state, this alignment between skills development and industrial growth will ensure that Sabahans are well-positioned to fill high-value jobs, especially in industrial zones such as KKIP and POIC,” he said.
Touching on longstanding infrastructure issues, Petrus said the RM848 million allocation to the Sabah Water Department (JANS) signals strong political will to resolve chronic water supply problems through immediate repairs, asset maintenance and preventive measures.
“This approach marks a significant shift from reactive solutions to long-term planning, offering hope that consistent water supply can finally be achieved,” he added.
He also welcomed the RM157.13 million allocation for flood mitigation projects under the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, noting that it would help protect communities frequently affected by flash floods, particularly along the West Coast and interior areas.
Overall, Petrus described Sabah Budget 2026 as balanced and inclusive, safeguarding the vulnerable while driving economic growth and future readiness.
“This budget reflects a government that listens, understands and acts. With stable revenues, rising investments and a strong focus on rakyat well-being, Sabah is clearly on the right path. The spirit of ‘rumah kita, kita jaga’ is now translated into action. Sabah Maju Jaya,” he said.
