Protect Public Facilities for the Common Good : Dr Joachim

13 May 2025

RANAU: Deputy Chief Minister II, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, has called on villagers to take good care of government-provided facilities for the benefit of all—particularly the newly constructed mini hall in Kampung Togop Laut, Kundasang.

Dr Joachim, who is also the State Assemblyman for Kundasang, said the mini hall is an upgrade from the previous community hall, now offering a more comfortable and versatile space for various community activities.

“Previously, we only provided a basic community hall. This time, we made improvements and constructed a mini hall. At the very least, villagers can carry out activities together, play badminton and other sports, and shelter from the rain and scorching sun,” he said during the official opening of the Mini Hall and Kaamatan Celebration in Kampung Togop Laut on 12 May.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining the hall so that it can continue to benefit the community for years to come.

“This is part of our efforts in the Kundasang constituency to enhance public facilities for villagers. I hope all residents will take good care of it,” he added.

Dr Joachim also expressed his appreciation to the village leadership, including the Village Head, JKKK Chairman, Native Chief, and Deputy Native Chief, for helping to identify the needs of the grassroots community.

On development matters, he noted that although RM10 million worth of project applications had been submitted, only RM3 million in funding had been approved.

“We will review the applications and prioritise the most urgent ones. Please report to the Community Development Leader (PPM) or District Office so that appropriate action can be taken,” said the Local Government and Housing Minister.

He also congratulated the residents of Togop Laut on their new facility and expressed confidence that more funding would be forthcoming if the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Government remains in power.

“If we are given another term next year and GRS remains, I believe allocations will be further increased. GRS is the best government to date, having successfully increased state revenue to RM7 billion over the past five years,” he said.

He also mentioned that major road projects, such as the Tarawas/Kaingaran route and the Singgaron-Mansalu stretch, are currently under construction and are funded by the Federal Government.

Dr Joachim stressed that the GRS Government is committed to assisting the people in the fields of education and the economy to nurture outstanding human capital.

The event also included the distribution of food aid baskets and vegetables donated by several companies and village heads from the Kundasang area.

Dr Joachim extended his gratitude to all contributors, including Bataras, Speedmart, and the local farming community, for their generous support.