IDS CEO Mr. Anthony Kiob (center) presenting a memento to YB Datuk Abidin Bin Madingkir
KOTA KINABALU (Wed): IDS Management Committee led by CEO Mr. Anthony Kiob, paid a courtesy call to YB Datuk Abidin Bin Madingkir, Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister of Sabah on Wednesday, 6th January 2021, in Sabah State Administrative Centre (PPNS), Kota Kinabalu. As the minister in charge of the Institute, YB Datuk Abidin discusses his plans in fully utilising IDS’ research capabilities in the planning and development of Sabah especially in rural areas.
“A masterplan for each district is a necessity, to identify their strongest assets and resources. Through such studies and planning, the State Government is able to develop these districts efficiently,” said YB Datuk Abidin, adding that the role of IDS is key in developing districts’ masterplans within the initial phase of overall district development.
Mr. Anthony Kiob further elaborated on successful district development plans drafted by the institute in the past, stating that the key to elevate the quality of life within rural communities is through the empowerment of district officers. “By going to the grassroot level, the Institute is able to identify and reduce the gap in the development planning and implementation by the Federal and State Government would be more cohesive, inclusive and sustainable,” Mr. Anthony further explained.
YB Datuk Abidin also expresses his concerns regarding the increasing transient population in Sabah especially in urban areas. “This issue needs to be addressed quickly, as the potential of the transient population altering the social and economic behaviour of our local communities is at a worrying level,” he added.
Also present during the discussion was IDS Deputy CEO Mr. Chong Vun Then, Mr. Richard T. Koh, Hajah Baiyah Ag. Mahmon and Hajah Hasnah Samsudin.
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