KUALA LUMPUR: Umno has virtually transformed the infrastructural landscape of Sabah as it remains committed in looking after the people's welfare.
Umno Semporna information chief Datuk Ramlee Marahaban said during the debate on the presidential policy speech that the state has enjoyed brisk development and assurance for further progress in the future.
"We were left behind long ago, but as Umno's wings expanded, so did we.
"Umno has changed Sabah with many developments," he said.
These developments included the Pan Borneo Highway which would vastly improve connectivity in the state compared to the current road network.
Ramlee lauded the efforts of Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Razak in ensuring the numerous packages of the highway construction project were being completed, as well as assuring that the highway would be toll-free.
In his debate, Ramlee also mentioned that he was grateful that many Sabahans had been appointed into top government positions.
"When we see people from Sabah becoming ministers, our children believe and understand that even they have the merit to serve at the highest level as government ministers.
"Before, Sabah leaders were only given portfolios of less importance or popularity. Today, ministers at the helm of the country are from Sabah and we are proud and thankful to Umno for making this happen."
He also threw shade at a former Umno leader from Sabah who left the party for the opposition, saying that he had 'bit the hand that fed him'.
Characters such as this particular leader's, he said, should be avoided.
"Unfortunately, this leader stabbed Umno in the back.
"What he did put not only the party at risk, but also the Malays and the country at large."
Ramlee, representing Umno Sabah, said the state was ready for the looming 14th General Election, and that they were only waiting in anticipation for the day when Najib sounds the drums signalling the start of the polls.
