Sandakan Launches Strategic Plan 2024-2028: Towards a Smart and Sustainable City

17 January 2025

SANDAKAN: The Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) Strategic Plan 2024-2028 was launched by Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam, at a ceremony held at the Sandakan Municipal Council Square this evening.

Dr. Joachim stated that this strategic plan is central to efforts to make Sandakan the second city in Sabah after Kota Kinabalu. He congratulated MPS for the initiative in drafting a comprehensive and thorough plan to achieve the vision of "Sandakan Towards a Smart and Sustainable City 2030."

“This plan is not just a document, but a vision, aspiration, and collective commitment to elevate Sandakan to a higher level. It also supports the aspirations of the Government under the Sabah Maju Jaya Direction and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he said.

He emphasised six main criteria that MPS must meet to achieve city status, including good governance, a sufficient population, financial stability, quality infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and active community involvement.

According to him, although MPS has met several criteria, there are still challenges to be addressed to ensure a smooth transition to city status.

Among these are strengthening governance and enhancing modern infrastructure development such as public transportation and affordable housing.

Dr. Joachim also encouraged the implementation of engagement sessions with the community to improve this strategic plan. He believes this approach will ensure that all stakeholders can contribute ideas and feedback for the development of the Sandakan district.

During the same ceremony, honours were given to Henry Idol, the outgoing President of MPS, Wilson @ Terence Thomas, the retiring Deputy President I, and all Council Members whose terms are ending. Dr. Joachim expressed appreciation for their contributions to the development of the Sandakan district.

Dr. Joachim reaffirmed the State Government's commitment to supporting the implementation of this strategic plan. He is confident that Sandakan will not only become a smart and sustainable city but also a model for sustainable development in Sabah.

Also present were Senator Annabell Perian, Member of the Senate; Datuk Dr. Jamili Nais, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Housing (KKTP); Datuk Dr. Jonnybone Kurum, Political Secretary of KKTP; Datuk Jaffari Walliam, Appointed Assemblyman; Datuk Haji Awang Kadin Tang, Director of the Sabah State UPPM and also a member of the Sandakan Municipal Council for 2023-2025; and the Deputy Chief of Police of Sandakan representing the Chief of Police of Sandakan, Supt. Ramasamy A/L Kuppan.