THE State Government will start to implement its initial rolling plan programmes under the 10th Malaysia Plan (10MP) slated for 2011 and 2012, according to Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin.
Various specific programmes and development projects have been drawn up, he said when delivering the State Government’s policy speech at the opening of the 13th State Assembly sitting in Likas yesterday.
Juhar disclosed that all the planning for the programmes and projects were done after taking into consideration the state’s needs in term of development, future challenges, current economic and global trends.
“I therefore hope that the State Government will be able to ensure that all development programmes planned under the first rolling plan will be implemented effectively in the interest of the people.
“The Government must also take immediate steps to resolve all the problems contributing to the delay in the implementation process,” he stressed.
Juhar also reminded civil servants of their responsibility to rejuvenate and facilitate the private investments in the state.
He stressed that the Government must provide a more conducive situation in order to assist the private sector and drive the state’s economy.
Policies and investment procedures must therefore be very clear and simplified so that the process of starting business in Sabah is as smooth as possible, he said, adding that with globalisation comes challenges and stiffer competition, there is a need for all to raise their skills, effectiveness and productivity.
“Direct growth in the private sector will create more job opportunities and strengthen the Government’s financial resources thus boosting the state’s development,” he said.
In the context of a multi-racial nation, unity is the key to harmony and prosperity, Juhar said, adding that the state and country have successfully used this a source of strength.
“Therefore we must continue to build a community that is not only firm and harmonious but also has the willingness to compromise and accept the various traditions in the state and country,” he said.
According to Juhar, the State Government, in its efforts to go forward towards achieving its objectives under the 10MP, must focus on the five strategic halatuju for 2011.
These include making full use of the Government Transformation Programme, the Economic Transformation Programme, human capital development, promoting research and development (R&D) and commercialization, improving the quality of life as well as enhancing business friendliness in Sabah.
He stressed that to ensure Sabah becomes a developed state, various steps must be taken and urged all Sabahans to double their efforts as well as cooperation in order to achieve the goal.