Gagasan Rakyat Youth Calls for Balanced Electricity Tariff Review in Sabah

31 January 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Pemuda Gagasan Rakyat has called for a balanced approach to the revision of electricity tariffs in Sabah, urging that any increase be accompanied by tangible improvements in service quality and adequate protection for consumers.

In a statement issued today, its Acting Chief, Azrul Ibrahim, said the youth wing acknowledged Sabah Electricity’s announcement on the review and adjustment of electricity tariffs, which is scheduled to take effect from 1 February 2026.

Azrul said Pemuda Gagasan Rakyat understood that a tariff review was, in principle, unavoidable in order to ensure a stable, reliable and sufficient electricity supply to meet both current and future demand in Sabah.

He noted that the adjustment was also aimed at gradually reducing dependence on government subsidies while addressing rising fuel costs, system maintenance requirements and the urgent need to upgrade ageing electricity grid infrastructure.

However, he stressed that higher tariffs must be matched by clear and measurable improvements in service delivery. According to him, power outages, voltage instability and system reliability issues should no longer be treated as routine, especially when consumers are being asked to pay more.

He added that Sabah Electricity must ensure operational efficiency, system reliability and customer service responsiveness are maintained at standards commensurate with the revised tariffs.

The statement also called for stronger consumer protection measures, including discounts, rebates or targeted assistance, particularly for B40 households, middle-income families, small traders and key sectors that underpin the local economy.

Azrul emphasised that a targeted and focused approach was necessary to prevent undue financial pressure on vulnerable groups.

In addition, he urged that all additional revenue generated from the tariff adjustment be managed prudently, transparently and responsibly.

Priority, he said, should be given to improving infrastructure, reducing the frequency of power disruptions and investing in more sustainable and efficient energy sources, so that consumers can see clear returns on what they pay.

Azrul concluded by expressing hope that all stakeholders would adopt a balanced approach that takes into account the financial needs of the utility, the responsibilities of the government and the welfare of the people of Sabah.

He said the tariff review should not be viewed merely as a price increase, but as a step towards a more secure, sustainable and reliable electricity system for present and future generations.