Sabah's social development and economic progress over the last 52 years has achieved significant milestones.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Tan Sri Joseph Kurup said at the same time a mass of issues have inevitably accumulated and that need to be urgently addressed and solved.
He said the economic growth from the 1970s and rising inequalities, social exclusion at the same time are all part of the Sabahan experience.
"It is further compounded by inadequate basic services that can be accessible by those who live in the interiors," he said at the Enhancing National Unity and Integration Conference, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak here, today.
Kurup said the decision to offer autonomy for Sabah consistently underpins these disparities, making these critical areas for effective policy intervention.
"It is high time we avoid the divisive effects of the perceived rising regional disparity, which often evolve between the Peninsula and Sabah," he said.
He said there is need for greater cooperation between the Peninsula and Sabah in order to find solutions to achieve inclusive and sustainable development.
Kurup said under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, the federal government has also been listening to the concerns of the people in Sabah.
"And as native Sabahan, on behalf of the people of the state, I would like to thank the Prime Minister for his willingness to listen to the voices of the people here and take action accordingly," he said.
Meanwhile, Kurup said the conference was held in conjunction with Malaysia Day to remind the people that the federal and state governments are dedicated towards upholding the principles that have been put forth by our founding fathers and leaders to promote unity and understanding among Malaysians.
"Unity and national solidarity through sustainable and inclusive development is the path we must follow. In striving to achieve this, it is our aim to promote integration by celebrating our diversity and through the common understanding of all our citizens," Kurup said.
He said this conference will be followed up by a second phase where dialogue forums will be organised throughout the state to hear the concerns of the people and gather information on the issues that are close to their hearts.
Bernama
Wed Sep 16 2015
JOSEPH: The economic growth from the 1970s and rising inequalities, social exclusion at the same time are all part of the Sabahan experience. - BERNAMA Photo
Who is Prabowo Subianto, incoming president of Indonesia?
A wealthy ex-general with ties to Indonesia's popular outgoing president and its dictatorial past, looks set to be its next leader.
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.