Social Issues addressed through applications

3 December 2024

KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, today launched the ReTrack Application and Book, a step towards addressing social issues that are often overlooked by society.

He stated that through this application, former prison inmates will no longer have to struggle alone.

"ReTrack serves as a support platform that assists them in finding jobs, building positive social networks, and monitoring their reintegration progress into society. This is crucial and strategic, especially for a geographically vast state like Sabah,” he said during the Launching Ceremony of the Tuaran District Economic Development Strategic Plan 2024-2035; the Transformation Framework for Sulaman; the Empowerment Plan for Fishing Communities in Kampung Penimbawan; and the ReTrack Application and Book at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Tuesday.

He added that the book "From Prison to Society: Commitment, Collaboration, and Well-being" serves as an important documentation that compiles expert insights from various sectors.

“This is evidence that the reintegration process requires a collective effort, involving not only the individuals but also their families, communities, and relevant institutions. Through this book, we hope to improve the community's perception of former inmates and provide them with a second chance to contribute meaningfully to the development of Sabah,” he said.

Hajiji stated that the Tuaran District Economic Development Strategic Plan 2024-2035 focuses on the tourism, agriculture, and fisheries sectors in the area.

“The Tuaran district has great potential in terms of natural beauty, local culture, and diverse agricultural products. This plan ensures that all stakeholders, from small entrepreneurs to large investors, can together capitalise on available opportunities.

"This plan also emphasises sustainable practices that will provide long-term benefits to the local population. In areas like Tuaran, natural wealth is a key asset. We must not allow development to occur at the expense of this heritage,” he said.

Hajiji remarked that all four initiatives would bring about significant changes to the Tuaran district, particularly in aspects of regional development and economic growth, including for fishing communities.

He cited the Transformation Framework for Sulaman as an example of how community involvement is central to development planning. He explained that the project is designed with the voices of the people in mind.

According to him, the Empowerment Plan for Fishing Communities in Kampung Penimbawan not only provides technological support but also opens opportunities for diversification and income generation through other sectors such as tourism and seafood processing.

“This initiative is formulated because we understand that fishing communities often fall victim to global economic changes such as price instability and climate change. Initiatives like the Tuaran District Economic Development Strategic Plan and the Transformation Framework for Sulaman aim to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, aligning with this goal,” he said.

He called upon and reminded all parties involved to work together to realise all the efforts and strategies that have been crafted.

“Utilise experience, knowledge, and capabilities to achieve the planned goals. Today's launch is just the beginning. We still have much work to do to ensure these initiatives meet their objectives," he said.