PAPAR, June 6 – Addressing the complex issue of hardcore poverty in Sabah requires solutions tailored specifically to the state’s unique circumstances, according to Parti Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal. Speaking after a visit to Kampung Kuala Pantai Manis, Shafie emphasized that Sabah’s poverty challenges cannot be directly compared with those in the Peninsula, necessitating distinct strategies for effective intervention. Shafie welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s commitment to eradicating hardcore poverty in Sabah by July but underscored the importance of a comprehensive approach.
He highlighted the need for thorough research and detailed action plans to genuinely assist those in need, stressing the urgency of improving public facilities in education and healthcare, areas where Sabah lags significantly behind the Peninsula. Prime Minister Anwar noted a reduction in the number of households classified as hardcore poor from 20,000 to 9,000, reflecting some progress but underscoring the need for continued, integrated efforts between Federal and State governments to address the issue fully.
