“Due to the commitment from all – in line with the aspirations of the Madani government and Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan 1.0 (2021-2025) – we have succeeded in eliminating hardcore poverty,” he said in a statement today.

The chief minister said cooperation from government-linked companies (GLCs) such as Sawit Kinabalu had helped the state government to eliminate hardcore poverty.

“I hope the GLCs will continue to provide job opportunities to our youths.

“This will undoubtedly help the state government, through the SMJ secretariat and Sabah development office,” he said.

In April, Hajiji had reiterated the Sabah government’s commitment to tackling poverty through the SMJ Development Plan, in line with the federal government’s desire to end hardcore poverty in Malaysia.

The household income indicator for one to be listed as hardcore poor was reported to be RM1,200 and below.