Salleh starts new role with focus on federal projects in Sabah

The new chief inspector of projects says his office will only review state government projects if directed to do so by the chief minister.

Salleh, who officially reported for his first day of duty today, said his office would only review state government projects if directed to do so by chief minister Hajiji Noor.

He said his office would work closely with ministries, departments, and implementing agencies to strengthen project monitoring and ensure that development projects deliver timely benefits to Sabah’s people and economy.

“This approach has been discussed with the chief minister and will be implemented in accordance with his guidance and priorities for Sabah’s development agenda,” he said in a statement today.

Salleh, the Sabah Umno treasurer and a former chief minister, announced his appointment to the post on May 19.

He said his office would first focus on issues affecting delayed, stalled, and yet-to-begin federal projects in Sabah, including major infrastructure projects such as the Pan Borneo Highway.

He also expressed concern over rising project costs amid global energy market uncertainty and broader economic challenges, saying “every delay comes with a cost”.

“Rising construction costs, volatile energy prices, and supply chain uncertainties mean that projects delayed today may require substantially higher funding tomorrow.

“In the current economic environment, it is important that approved projects proceed according to schedule. Delays can lead to cost escalation, place more pressure on development budgets, and reduce the overall value delivered to the people,” he said.

Salleh said his role would be solution-oriented, focused on identifying implementation bottlenecks, improving inter-agency coordination, and recommending practical measures to accelerate project delivery.

“Early intervention, better coordination, and timely decision-making are essential to ensuring that projects are delivered efficiently and effectively,” he said.