By Social Activist Remy Majangkim
KOTA KINABALU: What stands for Unity? It is about coming together as one and moving in unison. In Sabah politics, our politicians have used it to great effect for their gain. Since the 1980s, Sabahan has had a history of uniting people and achieving the impossible.
This is not a new concept, but it is achievable.
The difference today is the decimation and consumption of information. Today, readers rely heavily on social media, making it crucial to differentiate between facts and false information.
This is often accompanied by cyber troopers who deal with false narratives under the payroll.
In earlier years, we enjoyed reading the morning newspapers with our coffee or tea. The flow of information was limited, but we had quality journalists covering the story. Today’s news can be shared quickly and reaches a larger audience.
The scale of alleged corrupt practices in Sabah reached its zenith with revelations storming into our social media. The revelation can only be heightened as we draw closer to the Sabah State Election.
Our situation is further magnified by the mismanagement practices of the current government. The three main problems that Sabahans face daily are clean water, electricity supply, and road conditions.
The Pan Borneo road is still not complete and behind schedule. As revealed in the Public Accounts report, money had been paid to the road consultant before work had ever been done. This consulting firm was fired, but payment has been made in full. It was alleged that the firm was connected to the sitting Minister of Sabah.
The water issues in Sabah stem from having ample resources but inadequate distribution to the population. Such incompetency deprives the people of access to clean water for months up to a year.
Sabah has taken back Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd as regulatory bodies after it was handed out to Tenaga Nasional 40 years ago, approximately in 1984. Former employees and retirees, paint a picture, that SESB was fully abused, from a profitable company turn to a shamble. Now SESB needs to play catch-up, providing and changing old worn generators much more.
Persistent corrupt practices and mismanagement taking a toll on the people of Sabah. Worst we content in electing the same people in office knowing their previous actions. Younger generations are not interested in joining politics; if they do, the old farts morally degrade the person.
As we stand at a crossroads, we have a valuable opportunity ahead of us. Let’s come together, find our strength, and move forward with determination and unity.
