Tanjung Aru Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate Datuk Chan Foong Hin has promised to provide free boat transportation for all students in Pulau Gaya and strongly defended the RM260 million federal allocation for a new school complex on the island.
After a visit to the village, Chan said the pledges aim to uplift a community that has “long been left behind,” stressing the importance of equal access to education and safer learning conditions.
He said the free boat service for students of SK Pulau Gaya and SMK Pulau Gaya will be provided throughout the school year to reduce financial burdens and improve safety during daily commutes.
“This initiative aims to ensure students can travel safely, smoothly, and without additional cost,” Chan said.
The pledge aligns with the government’s recent approval of RM260 million to build a consolidated education complex, replacing the current over-water school structures that are often damaged by storms and coastal erosion.
The new complex will include: a rebuilt SK Pulau Gaya and SMK Pulau Gaya, 36 classrooms, a main hall, and modern sports facilities.
Chan expressed disappointment over criticism of the project’s cost.
“Some critics say it is so expensive – RM260 million for 2,000 students – but as a government, we cannot deny a student’s right to access education. You cannot put a price tag on that,” he said.
Voting for the Sabah state election is scheduled on November 29.
