KOTA KINABALU: The Budget 2020 allocation for Sabah is disappointing and more funds are needed to fix the economic stagnation in the state, says Sabah Wanita MCA chairman Dr Pamela Yong.

She said there was nothing significant in the budget that would boost Sabah's economy in the immediate future.

"Sabah's economy at the moment is at a state of paralysis with a GDP growth of only 1.5% this year, putting us dead last in the race compared to being top two last year with 8% GDP growth," Yong added.

She suggested that the Federal Government look more aggressively at the development of the state's resource-based type of industry as an immediate economic booster.

"Repairs, upgrades, connectivity - roads and internet, telecommunication, freshwater and electricity access are basic necessities or our entitlement and the responsibility of a Federal Government," Yong said.

"The budget allocation totally does not bear any reflection of the equal partnership that the Pakatan Harapan government has been touting way back during the GE14 election campaign.

"Yes, there are some of us that are very excited about the doubling of the special grant which has not been revised since 1969 with some saying it is a tiny ripple of change to come," she said.

The allocation of development funds of RM5.2bil which is 9.2% of the total budget when compared to last year's budget, is only an increase of 0.1%, she said.

She added that in view of Sabah's land mass and vast coastal lines, the Federal Government should look at agriculture and aquaculture, instead of superficial band-aid type of allocations to RISDA or LIGS.

"Nevertheless, I am relieved that the Federal Government has taken heed of Sabah's sentiments to continue and to complete the Pan Borneo Highway, which is the impetus to spurring some economic growth in the state.

"Also kudos to them for taking note of the importance of connecting Sabah and Kalimantan ahead of the move of Indonesia's capital city from Jakarta to East Kalimantan by completing the final 40km of earth road connecting the border town of Serudong, Kalabakan to Simanggaris, Kalimantan," she added.