RM11.15 million allocated for Sabah Local Authority Green Landscape Project this year: Dr. Joachim

8 March 2025

PUTATAN: The government has allocated RM11.15 millions for the implementation of various landscaping programmes and projects throughout Sabah this year.

Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam stated that the allocation involves funding from both the Federal and State Governments and will be distributed to all Local Authorities (PBT) in Sabah for the purpose of developing and upgrading green infrastructure for the well-being of the community.

According to him, this allocation is in line with the initiative for landscape development planning in Sabah, which emphasises the importance of sustainability, environmental beauty, and ecological balance in urban and rural development.

"I understand the need for allocations for PBT in efforts to develop and upgrade green infrastructure facilities for the benefit of local communities. Therefore, in accordance with the initiative for landscape development planning in Sabah,RM11,150,000 has been allocated for the implementation of landscaping programmes and projects in 2025," he said while delivering a Special Address as part of the “I P.L.A.N.T.” Programme at Taman Pasir Putih Phase 1 here today.

His speech was delivered by the Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Isnin Aliasnih.

The “I P.L.A.N.T.” (Sustainable Greening Initiative, Aspiration for the Most Beautiful Parks) programme is one of the ministry's steps to enhance the sustainability of Sabah’s landscape through close collaboration with the PBT.

Dr. Joachim noted that this programme is not merely symbolic tree planting, but a strategic agenda contributing to long-term sustainable development and a green economy.

As of December 2024, a total of 331,151 trees have been planted under this programme; however, this figure is still far from the target of 1.3 million trees by 2033, which was announced since its launch in 2020.

"This figure shows that much more needs to be done, and I urge all PBT to continue intensifying their greening campaigns and to implement tree planting initiatives in their respective areas," he said.

In addition to tree planting, the ministry is also actively organising various awareness and educational programmes such as the I-HIJAU KKTP Festival, Green Resolution Workshops, and joint tours with PBT to various districts to promote green practices at the grassroots level.

He mentioned that the ministry has also introduced community programmes such as Community Gardens and Sustainable Partners, as efforts to encourage direct community involvement in maintaining and preserving environmental sustainability.

Dr. Joachim stated that among the key principles emphasised by the ministry is the circular sustainable economy, which involves the wise use of resources, reducing carbon footprints, developing green technology, and environmental conservation.

He also highlighted the importance of incorporating green neighbourhood elements in the design of housing and urban development, including the use of renewable energy, sustainable building materials, and the provision of public green spaces.

Furthermore, he noted that the ministry is collaborating with the Federal Government on various programmes such as the Sustainable Community Agenda, Low Carbon Schools project, and the implementation of the SDG Roadmap and Voluntary Local Review (VLR) in five selected PBT in Sabah.

"All of this is part of an integrated effort to make Sabah the most beautiful garden state, which is not only beautiful in terms of landscape but also sustainable in economic, social, and environmental aspects," he said.

Expressing appreciation to all parties present and supporting this initiative, including government agencies, representatives from PBT, and local communities, Dr. Joachim called on everyone to join hands, strengthen their commitment, and continue to carry out their responsibilities with dedication for the progress and sustainability of Sabah.