{
  "id": 6257514,
  "title": "Sabah belanja lebih RM1 bilion tangani isu bekalan air",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/08/sabah-belanja-lebih-rm1-bilion-tangani-isu-bekalan-air-6257514",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-08T06:52:26.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today-freemalays",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/bahasa/tempatan/2026/09/08/sabah-belanja-lebih-rm1-bilion-tangani-isu-bekalan-air"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Chief Minister of Sabah, Hajiji Noor, has revealed that his administration is spending more than RM1 billion to address the challenges related to basic infrastructure such as water supply, electricity, and road networks that the people have been facing for a long time. The funds are being utilized for replacing old pipelines across most districts, including those in the city, restoring progress on the Tawau water project to around 50-60%, inaugurating 106 two-storey Phase 1 shops, breaking ground on Phase 2 and 3 commercial development projects at the Housing and Development Corporation (LPPB) in Bubul Street, and emphasizing the importance of attracting investors and outside capital to Sabah. The Chief Minister stated that the state government's approach is one of investor-friendly policies to ensure the economy of Sabah continues to grow. He reiterated that progressive development in Sabah cannot be solely the responsibility of the government, but requires collaboration from all sectors, including the private sector, execution agencies, entrepreneurs, and the public. Earlier, the Chief Minister stressed that development in Sabah should not be limited to Kota Kinabalu or major cities, but should encompass every region. Regarding the launch of the LPPB project today, he said that this is just a part of Sabah's development journey, not a standalone commercial project. He noted that Sabah's natural assets, such as its beautiful islands, need to be developed into greater economic benefits for the people; hence, comprehensive development is necessary. The strategically located commercial area along the Balung-Semporna highway offers potential for growth as a new trade and business hub. Its advantages include a river and proximity to the sea, making it suitable for building a bridge. The Chief Minister expressed that a well-designed and beautiful bridge can add value while providing residents with scenic views of the river and sea, relaxation by the water, sunset enjoyment, and photo opportunities.",
  "summary": "Ketua Menteri Hajiji Noor berkata peruntukan itu antaranya bagi menggantikan paip usang di kebanyakan daerah, termasuk dicuri.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Free Malaysia Today",
        "title": "Sabah belanja lebih RM1 bilion tangani isu bekalan air",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/08/sabah-belanja-lebih-rm1-bilion-tangani-isu-bekalan-air",
        "published": "2026-09-08T06:52:26.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}