Sabah Budget 2026 will Drive Comprehensive Development : Mohd Bahrin

13th December 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) leader, Haji Mohd Bahrin Abd. Karim, has welcomed the presentation of the Sabah Budget 2026 by the Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister of Finance, Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun, describing it as a budget that drives balanced development while prioritising the well-being of the people.

The Gagasan Rakyat Likas Division Chief said the RM6.402 billion budget, which also recorded a surplus of RM28 million, demonstrates the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Government’s capability to manage the state’s finances prudently despite ongoing global economic uncertainties.

“This 2026 Budget is not only realistic but is also guided by a clear and structured direction for the next five years of the new administration under the Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor. It places Sabah on a strong footing to move forward,” he said in a statement today.

He stressed that the focus on five key pillars, the development of productive sectors, the reduction of socio-economic disparities, the empowerment of human capital, the enhancement of enabling infrastructure, and the strengthening of government service delivery systems, represents a comprehensive strategy that addresses the state’s needs.

Mohd Bahrin added that the shift in the ratio of operating expenditure towards development expenditure reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring the continued implementation of high-impact projects, particularly in basic infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and industry.

“The people want to see projects progressing and delivering tangible results. This budget provides the capacity to do just that. Our priority is to ensure that development is enjoyed fairly and inclusively,” he emphasised.

He also welcomed the substantial allocations for investment, tourism, the blue economy, and digital transformation, which he said would generate long-term benefits for the state’s economy.

“Sabah has enormous potential, and this budget creates greater opportunities for investors, increases employment, and strengthens the state’s competitiveness across various emerging sectors,” he said.

According to Mohd Bahrin, the state’s success in maintaining stable revenue levels despite pressure from fluctuating oil prices demonstrates Sabah’s economic resilience and the effectiveness of its revenue diversification strategies.

He reaffirmed that the GRS Government remains committed to strengthening state development through an inclusive, responsible, and people-centred approach.

“This budget provides a solid foundation to elevate Sabah to a higher level. The State Government will ensure that its implementation achieves its objectives and delivers direct benefits to the people,” Mohd Bahrin said.