14 Sabah mega projects allegedly cancelled after funding not channelled

In Sabah, 14 mega projects, including rural roads, hospitals and schools, allegedly saw their funding not directed to the Rural and Regional Development Ministry, according to Kota Belud Umno division chief Azuwan Marjan @ Norjan. This cancellation, he claimed, would negatively impact Sabahans, particularly those residing in rural and interior areas.

The cancellations came after allegations that allocations were not properly channeled to the ministry, with Zahid, who serves as both the rural and regional development minister and the Treasury secretary-general, criticizing realignment of government funds and unbudgeted initiatives.

Treasury secretary-general Tan Sri Johan Mahmood Merican denied any withholding of funds, stating that payment delays were due to the ministry nearing its annual allocation. As of June, the ministry had spent RM1.9 billion of its RM2.1 billion approved allocation for rural-road projects. Fadzmel Fadzil, Zahid's press secretary, denied claims of Zahid making unilateral financial commitments.

Azuwan also addressed the Malaysia Agreement 1963, calling for resolution of outstanding provisions, which he believed would be prioritized if Barisan Nasional returned to power after the 16th general election. He reiterated Zahid's pledge to implement outstanding provisions under MA63 if BN led the government, which he also claimed was made by the coalition chairman during the Kimanis by-election campaign.

Concerning the diesel subsidy issue, Azuwan urged the government to abolish the targeted Budi Madani subsidy system, citing that the 400-litre monthly quota was insufficient for Sabahans due to the longer distances between districts. He also questioned the requirement for a diesel vehicle to qualify for the subsidy, stating that the policy disproportionately affected farmers, fishermen, rural entrepreneurs, smallholders, small traders and contractors.