KOTA KINABALU, Oct 12 -- Sabah hopes that the Federal Government would disburse funds allocated for the state in Budget 2020, early next year.   

Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Jaujan Sambakong said it was crucial for the state government to get the funds promptly so as to have sufficient time to implement quality development projects for the people.

"If the allocation comes only in April or May, it might delay implementation of the projects. The people, particularly rural folk are eagerly looking forward to getting water supply, electricity supply and roads,” he told a media conference here today.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng yesterday announced while tabling Budget 2020 that Sabah would receive RM5.2 billion in allocation.

Jaujan who is also state Local Government and Housing Minister issued reminders to development project contractors appointed by the state that they must focus on quality, not just profit in getting the job done.

State Rural Development Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said the increase in special allocation for Sabah from RM26.7 million to RM53.4 million in Budget 2020 was an indication that the federal government under Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad did take into consideration the state leadership’s views.  

State Education and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Yusof Yaacob hoped Sabah would get a sizeable sum from the RM783 million allocated for rehabilitation of dilapidated schools.

“We need more funds to restore 587 derelict schools in Sabah,” he said in a statement.

State Youth and Sports Minister Phoong Jin Zhe said he was thankful to the federal government for acknowledging the list of requests he submitted to Finance Minister Lim Gian Eng.

Not only did his ministry receive an allocation of RM5 million to restore Kota Kinabalu Stadium, it also obtained funds to upgrade sports complexes statewide in stages. 

“I am also happy with the allocation increase to RM20 million for e-Sports development next year,” he said in a statement.

-- BERNAMA