By: Nurul Fazliana Norman
PAPAR: Aug 24. 2026 — Rural Development Assistant Minister Datuk Juil Nuatim has stressed that development should not be focused solely on building infrastructure, but must also encompass the well-being and quality of life of the community through cooperation between the government and the people.
He made these remarks when officiating the 2026 Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang (KMJG) programme at Kampung Tanaki here on Saturday.
He said true development includes access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, as well as a peaceful and prosperous life.
“Development is, in fact, about building our society – a society that lives in peace, helps one another, has access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and enjoys a good quality of life,” he said.
According to Juil, grassroots programmes such as KMJG are important as a platform to bring the government closer to the people, through the dissemination of accurate information on government policies and providing space for the community to voice their views.
He also called on residents to practise the culture of gotong-royong (mutual cooperation) to strengthen unity and prevent division within the community.
As such, he advised the public to obtain information from authentic sources and avoid spreading fake news that could undermine harmony.
Also present was Sabah State Information Department director Jainisah Mohd Noor.
Source: JAPEN
