KOTA KINABALU: The clock is ticking for the Federal Government, especially the Ministry of Works, to expedite the implementation of Phase 3 of the Pan Borneo Project in the upper interior regions of Sabah.

Senator Datuk Bobbey Suan stressed the urgency of giving priority to areas like Tawau, Nabawan, Keningau, Tambunan, and Tenom for the Pan Borneo Project rollout. These regions are strategically positioned near the anticipated capital of Nusantara Kalimantan.

With Indonesia set to inaugurate its new capital on August 17 this year, marking Indonesia’s Independence Day celebrations, Bobbey emphasized the need for proactive action. He warned that Indonesia’s emergence as a new regional power could have significant implications for Malaysia, especially Sabah.

Bobbey underscored the importance of understanding and carefully navigating the geopolitical, geostrategic, and geo-economic shifts that Indonesia’s capital relocation could trigger in the region.

Appeal for Immediate Action: Nabawan Hospital Upgrade

Bobbey reiterated his call for the Federal Government to upgrade the Nabawan District Health Clinic to a full-fledged hospital. He urged cooperation between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Health to expedite the upgrade process and cut through bureaucratic red tape.

Addressing Persistent Poverty: Focus on TVET

Touching on Sabah’s persistent poverty issues, Bobbey voiced support for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a key tool in tackling severe poverty in the state’s poorest districts.

Call to Action: Prioritize Sustainable Solutions

Bobbey urged the authorities to develop a clear plan to lift vulnerable communities out of poverty, emphasizing the importance of TVET and income-generating initiatives for sustainable livelihoods.