Milian Township Project: A Strategic Milestone in Sabah’s Rural Development Agenda

16 August 2025

KOTA KINABATANGAN: The groundbreaking ceremony for the Milian New Township Project last Friday was hailed as a historic moment, set to transform the landscape of Kinabatangan from a rural district into a new growth centre in Sabah.

Community Development Leader (PPM) for the Lamag State Constituency, Johainizamshah Johari, stated that the mega project is not merely about infrastructure development, but a symbol of economic resurgence and improved well-being for the people of Kinabatangan.

“This project is a symbol of transformation. It is planned to span over 15 years, but I believe with Sunmow Construction’s expertise and the use of modern technology, it can be completed within 10 years.

“We want the children of Kinabatangan to enjoy employment opportunities and development in their own homeland,” he said in his speech during the ceremony officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor in Pekan Kota Kinabatangan on Friday.

Johainizamshah, who has led the Community Development Leaders Unit (UPPM) for the Lamag constituency since 2023, stressed that despite not having special allocations like a State Assemblyman (ADUN), his team has worked tirelessly to fulfil the people’s trust.

“These past three years, we’ve proven that even without privileges, we can bring about change,” he emphasised.

According to him, achievements recorded during that period include: Resolving 255 long-standing land applications in the Lamag constituency; Approving 12 land applications in Pekan Kota Kinabatangan for surveying and issuance of land grants.

Clearing two pending land applications for the Kinabatangan District Council, delayed since the 1990s, with one of the land grants handed over during the ceremony; Registering 222 individuals—including bedridden patients, senior citizens and persons with disabilities—for social welfare aid, with 101 applications approved.

Bringing in new investments in 2024 and completing 100% of Phase 1 of the Lamag Development Plan.

“We may seem insignificant in the eyes of some, but we’ve proven that ordinary people can do extraordinary things for the rakyat (people),” he said.

He noted that the Milian New Township Project is expected to generate 2,000 job opportunities, boost local purchasing power, and help break the cycle of poverty.

In the long term, he expressed confidence that Kinabatangan has the potential to be upgraded to municipal council status within 20 years.

However, he reminded the state government not to neglect the basic needs of villagers who are still lagging behind.

“As we pursue development, let us not forget Kampung Sangau and Kampung Kulu-Kulu, which are still without electricity. The electrification and clean water supply projects for these two villages would only require an estimated RM2 million,” he said.

Johainizamshah also called for the construction of a mini sports complex in Kinabatangan worth RM8 million to fulfil the aspirations of local youth. He further urged the people, government and local leaders to unite in ensuring the success of the planned development projects.

“A Progressive Kinabatangan is no longer a dream,it is being built. A Prosperous Lamag is not an empty promise, we are making it a reality. The dignity of the people is not a campaign slogan—it is the lifeblood of our struggle,” he said.