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.