Sabah imbangi pembangunan ekonomi, perlindungan alam sekitar

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah's Chief Minister Hajiji Noor emphasized that balancing economic growth with environmental protection and strengthening resilience against climate change is vital for the future development of coastal cities. During the 2026 International Multi-National City Kinabalu Dialogue (KKIMD) in the Sabah Convention Centre, Noor stated that smart planning and close cooperation can create safer, cleaner, and more resilient cities for generations to come.

The event gathered participants from eight countries and 15 cities, including representatives from Indonesia, South Korea, and the United States.

Hajiji Noor highlighted the importance of integrating climate change adaptation into urban management, including community gardens, sanitation, flood control, and the preservation of mangroves and rivers. He noted that these efforts require better access to climate financing, public-private partnership, and knowledge sharing among cities to implement green infrastructure projects and enhance resilience against climate change.

Sabah's waters support local livelihoods, food security, and various maritime industries, making their protection crucial for long-term economic prosperity. Noor pointed out the state government's commitment to balancing environmental preservation with economic growth, exemplified by Taman Tun Mustapha, which focuses on marine ecosystem conservation while supporting community needs.

The chief minister also mentioned Sabah's commitment to the Green Economy agenda as part of Sabah's Vision 2020, emphasizing the importance of diversified income sources and improved quality of life, while enhancing the implementation of the Sabah Biotecnology Action Plan 2024-2034, which links biodiversity preservation with socio-economic development.

Noor praised the Kota Kinabalu City Hall's (DBKK) Smart City agenda for improving early flood warning systems, land-use planning, and public service delivery. However, he urged for continued citizen participation, transparency, and accountability in the digital transformation process.