03-05-2025
Sandakan second city if RM200 million target is met
Published on: Saturday, May 03, 2025
Published on: Sat, May 03, 2025
By: Winnie Kasmir Text Size: Isnin (seated, centre) with the newly sworn-in councillors. SANDAKAN: Assistant Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Isnin Aliasnih said the Municipal Council (MPS) has shown commendable performance in recent years, particularly in revenue collection and management. He said if MPS can maintain its revenue collection performance, reaching RM200 million annually, Sandakan has the potential to be elevated to city status. 'If we manage to reach RM200 million in annual income, it can be declared a City Hall. We are heading in that direction and I hope all parties will continue to work hard,' he said at the swearing in of 24 councillors, including several new appointees. Council President Walter Kenson said it remains committed to strengthening its administration in line with the State's development aspirations under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya and the recently launched MPS Strategic Plan 2024–2028. The long-term vision and development direction of the State must always serve as the primary reference in the daily tasks of MPS, he said. 'We cannot deviate from the long-term vision and plans that have been outlined. 'The MPS Strategic Plan 2024–2028 aligns with the Sabah Maju Jaya aspirations and supports sustainable development agendas at both national and global levels,' he said. The strategic plan serves as an essential guide in realising the vision of 'Sandakan towards a Smart and Sustainable City 2030,' with the goal of making Sandakan the second city in Sabah after Kota Kinabalu. Six key criteria have been identified as requirements to achieve this status, including efficient governance, financial stability, quality infrastructure development and active community engagement. Walter further emphasised that service delivery aspects need serious attention, including reducing bureaucracy, utilising information technology and enhancing staff efficiency. 'Council members must play a role as monitors and provide feedback to improve the council's service delivery system,' he said. In terms of infrastructure development, MPS will continue to work closely with the state and federal governments to ensure basic facilities such as roads, drainage systems, street lighting and solid waste management are maintained at the highest standards. Initiatives towards a smart city also involve the installation of CCTV, smart street lighting and high-speed internet networks. Regarding environmental sustainability, Walter stressed that protecting Sandakan's natural heritage is a shared responsibility. 'MPS will intensify green initiatives, strengthen law enforcement against pollution, and implement public awareness programmes related to recycling and waste reduction,' he said. He also urged council members to continue promoting community projects that foster a culture of environmental love among Sandakan residents. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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