Rural Development Minister Ewon Benedick said the allocation, which will be included in Sabah’s 2020 Budget to be tabled next week, is part of his ministry’s initiative to help the rural community develop their tourism industry.

“I have received complaints that many roads connecting tourism spots operated by the rural community could not be improved and upgraded because of the lack of funds.

“As such, the state cabinet has decided to set up a special committee to draw up policies to develop the tourism industry in rural areas which include infrastructure improvements,” he said in a statement today.

Benedick, who is also the Kadamaian assemblyman, said the 2020 budget will also include an allocation for water and electricity supply to rural areas.