GRS Stability proven through increase of State Revenue

14 September 2025

KUNDASANG: The sharp increase in state revenue to the highest level in history is proof of the strength and effectiveness of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Government’s administration, said Deputy Chief Minister II, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

He said state revenue, which reached RM5.49 billion in 2021, RM6.96 billion in 2022, RM6.97 billion in 2023 and RM6.84 billion in 2024, clearly shows that policies under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan have had a positive impact on the state’s economic growth.

“This achievement is not just about numbers. It proves that the Government has a solid foundation in governance. The high revenue has been translated into various benefits for the people,” he said when delivering his speech at the Cabbage Festival on the Cultural Stage in Kundasang today.

Dr Joachim, who is also Minister of Local Government and Housing, said the revenue has enabled the Government to implement initiatives such as the SMJ Affordable Homes, the Sabah State Government Scholarship (BKNS), the RM300 monthly Sabah People’s Cash Aid, and a one-off RM5,000 assistance package for 643 roadside hawkers.

He added that the oil and gas sector has also contributed significantly, with the establishment of SMJ Energy Sdn Bhd boosting state revenue from RM50 million to RM5.1 billion, while also creating over 1,000 new job opportunities.

In addition, strategic investments from international giants – Kibing Solar, SK Nexilis and Esteel Enterprise – have created thousands of job opportunities for local youths, further strengthening Sabah’s competitiveness as an investment destination.

Dr Joachim, who is also the Assemblyman for Kundasang, stressed that these development successes were only possible due to the political stability maintained by GRS, as the Government is committed to addressing the people’s fundamental needs.

“GRS has already proven itself to be a stable, solid government that prioritises the people’s interests. If given the mandate again, we will ensure these successes continue,” he asserted.

He also expressed his appreciation to the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah, Tun (Dr) Musa Aman, and his wife, Toh Puan Faridah Tusin, for gracing the Cabbage Festival with their presence.

He said the Governor’s attendance alongside the people reflects the state leadership’s commitment to community well-being, particularly in Kundasang.

“Congratulations to everyone involved in making this 25th Cabbage Festival a success,” he said.

Also present were the Minister of Finance and Karanaan Assemblyman, Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun; Ranau Member of Parliament, Datuk Jonathan Yasin; Nominated Assemblywoman, Datuk Amisah Yassin; Ranau District Officer and Advisor to the Cabbage Festival Council, Tinus Manggam; Organising Chairman of the Cabbage Festival, Datuk Japiril Suhaimin, as well as heads of Ranau District Departments.