Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim arriving to launch the Sabah International Blue Ocean Economy Conference at Sabah International Convention Centre here Saturday.
KOTA KINABALU: A government that adopts good governance and responsible leadership is key to the country’s political stability and progress, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
He said good governance enables the government to formulate and implement clear policies to guide development in the country for the benefit of the people.
Citing Sabah as an example, Anwar said despite facing various political challenges over the past few years, political stability has been achieved through the implementation of sound policies.
“I believe, as (Chief Minister) Hajiji (Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor) has mentioned, that we have clear policies, clear support, a strong commitment, and a desire to cooperate.
“Congratulations to the entire team (the Sabah state government) for achieving political stability in the country, and we are fortunate,” he said in his speech at the launching of the Sabah International Blue Ocean Economy Conference at Sabah International Convention Centre here.
Present was Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.
Anwar added that with political stability, the country and the state can formulate policies that will help to improve the well-being and livelihood of the people.
“We are fortunate that after the turmoil in the political arena of Malaysia, we found political stability two years ago.
“Political stability is not the answer. What is more important is the governance and responsible leadership to free the country from corruption and abuse of powers,” he said.
Anwar noted that Sabah, which has traditionally relied on the timber industry, has made significant progress as it moves towards industrialisation, food security, and now a blue ocean economy.
On other matters, Anwar said the 2025 Budget is partially inspired by his visits and meetings with the people in Lahad Datu.
Anwar added that while budget inputs are provided by experts, he acknowledges that the wisdom of people from rural areas should not be underestimated.
“I can’t underestimate the importance and wisdom of the rural folks. I’m speaking to the children and my grandchildren at Sekolah Kebangsaan Lahad Datu.
“Then I realised, what can we offer? They look up to us with such expressions of affection, love, and respect.
“And we must reciprocate and understand that we have a responsibility, not only to our own children and families but to all the children in this country.”
It was reported that Anwar had visited Lahad Datu, Felda Sahabat last month.
Anwar yesterday tabled the 2025 Budget with an allocation of RM421 billion – the largest budget in the country’s history.
He had announced that Sabah and Sarawak will receive RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively in development funds under the 2025 Budget.
Anwar had also said Sabah and Sarawak’s Interim Special Grants rates will also be increased to RM600 million each.
Meanwhile, regarding the blue economy, Anwar said it would benefit both Sabah and the country.
“There will be no issue whatsoever with what is required by any state or community.
“If it is just and fair, we will continue to support it without fear or favour and this will be reflected in the (next) budget,” he said, urging experts to engage in discussions to present, participate in, and support this endeavour to make Sabah economically strong and viable.
According to the World Bank, the blue economy is the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation while preserving the ocean’s ecosystem. – NST
