Sabah must balance economic growth with environmental protection, says Hajiji

Chief Minister Hajiji Noor emphasized the need for Sabah to achieve a balance between economic development and environmental protection to ensure sustainable growth. Coastal cities, which are hubs for trade and tourism, face risks from rising sea levels, extreme weather, and pollution. To develop safer and more resilient cities, Hajiji stressed the importance of proper planning and cooperation.

Integration of climate considerations into urban management, including drainage, sanitation, flood control, and conservation of mangroves and rivers, is crucial. Access to climate financing, public-private partnerships, and knowledge-sharing among cities are essential for green infrastructure projects and climate resilience. Sabah's waters support livelihoods, food security, and various maritime industries, making their protection vital for long-term economic sustainability.

The state is part of the Coral Triangle, a region with significant marine biodiversity. The Sabah government's commitment to balancing conservation and development is evident in the protection of marine ecosystems in Tun Mustapha Park and the Sabah Blue Economy agenda, which offers opportunities for sustainable growth in fisheries, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, coastal and island tourism, and logistics.

These activities must be developed responsibly to align with the Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 development plan for 2026-2030 and the Sabah Biotechnology Action Plan 2024-2034, which aim to strengthen income sources and improve public welfare while linking biodiversity conservation with socio-economic development. Kota Kinabalu City Hall has advanced its Smart City agenda through technologies like artificial intelligence, digital twins, geospatial tools, and urban data platforms, but digital transformation should remain people-centered, transparent, and accountable.