by David E.
KOTA KINABALU: September 8, 2026 – Infrastructure development in Sabah is not merely about constructing roads, bridges or buildings, but serves as the lifeblood for opening economic opportunities, narrowing the urban-rural divide, and improving the people’s standard of living.
This was the firm assertion of Sabah Deputy Chief Minister cum Minister of Works and Utilities, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam, when officiating the BEST 2026 conference in Kota Kinabalu today.
He said the state government is committed to providing the best facilities within its means, however Sabah’s vast geographical challenges — hilly terrain, swampy areas and earthquake risks — make construction costs exceptionally high.
“Quality infrastructure opens up economic space, strengthens urban-rural linkages, and supports sustainable investment. Its benefits are not just for today, but for future generations,” he said in his keynote address.
Joachim also reminded that new technology must not compromise quality standards.
“We cannot compromise on standards. Standards and technology must move in tandem — standards for quality, technology for efficiency.”
He also stressed that the state’s development success does not depend solely on money or machinery, but on human capital — engineers, architects, contractors and young professionals who must continuously learn and share knowledge.
“We can provide allocations, build infrastructure, introduce technology — but true success still depends on people. I hope more young professionals will leverage platforms like BEST to enhance their knowledge and build networks,” he said.
The audience also heard his hope that BEST would not be a one-off conference, but a legacy that nurtures a culture of excellence and professionalism in the construction sector in Sabah and Sarawak.
“Every major conference begins with a bold step. Today we witness that first step. I hope it grows into a legacy to drive Sabah’s future development.”
Also present at the officiating ceremony were Sabah Maju Jaya Chief Coordinator, Datuk Haji Datu Rosmadi Datu Sulai; Sabah Public Works Department Director, Baharuhom Bin K.K. Sogon; as well as heads of state and federal government departments and agencies.
The BEST 2026 conference, themed “Strengthening Standards and Empowering Infrastructure Technology”, is the inaugural edition and gathered over 500 participants from various sectors.
Joachim also congratulated the organisers, speakers, sponsors and all participants for the successful organisation of the programme, and officially declared the conference open with much delight.
“May this conference achieve its objectives and become a platform that continues to strengthen standards, innovation and professionalism,” he said in closing.
