Kota Kinabalu (May 14) - Sabah Human Development and Empowerment Association (SAHDEA) president Arthur Erik has expressed agreement with recent remarks by Khairy Jamaluddin that although Malaysia’s economic fundamentals may be improving, many ordinary Malaysians have yet to genuinely feel the benefits in their daily lives.
In a statement today, Arthur said the observation reflected sentiments shared by many Sabahans who continue to struggle with rising living costs despite signs of broader economic stabilisation.
“While there are visible improvements in several macroeconomic indicators and investor confidence, the reality on the ground for many ordinary people remains challenging,” he said.
Arthur said Sabahans, particularly those in rural and semi-urban communities, continue to face longstanding structural issues involving income disparity, infrastructure gaps, higher logistics costs, and limited access to economic opportunities.
“As Sabahans, we often hear positive national economic figures being announced. However, many people here are still asking when these improvements will actually translate into better livelihoods, more affordable living costs, and stronger opportunities for families and youths,” he said.
He added that stabilising the economy was an important first step, but stressed that economic recovery should ultimately be measured by whether ordinary citizens experience meaningful improvements in their quality of life.
Arthur also said constructive public feedback should not be dismissed as political criticism, but instead viewed as part of a healthy national conversation on improving policy delivery and ensuring more inclusive development.
According to him, organisations such as SAHDEA regularly engage with youths, community groups, creatives, and grassroots communities in Sabah, many of whom still face economic uncertainty and rising financial pressures.
He said greater emphasis should now be placed on inclusive growth, youth empowerment, regional development, and ensuring Sabah and East Malaysia are not left behind in national economic planning.
Earlier, Khairy reportedly said that while the current administration had succeeded in stabilising several aspects of the economy, ordinary Malaysians had yet to truly feel the benefits at the household level.