The Sabah Housing and Urban Development Authority (LPPB) is under pressure to address concerns raised by the National Audit Department, with chairman Datuk Masiung Banah calling for swift action to resolve the issues.

Speaking at the LPPB Chinese New Year celebration at Hakka Hall on Friday, Masiung made it clear that the agency must take the audit findings seriously.

“I have reminded LPPB’s executive management that these issues must not be repeated and must not become a lingering problem in the administration,” he said.

The audit, released last month, flagged delays in major 2024 projects tied to third-party collaborations, raising concerns about the agency’s efficiency.

Officials claim the matter is related to the utility firms. 

Masiung is now urging key agencies, particularly those overseeing electricity and water connections, to fast-track approvals for completed housing developments.

Beyond responding to the audit, he emphasized the importance of long-term governance reforms to ensure housing projects are delivered on schedule.

Looking back at his time with LPPB, the Kuamut assemblyman recalled that the agency faced serious financial instability when he joined in 2000.

“But within three years, we made changes that allowed LPPB to generate a steady profit, ensuring our staff received annual bonuses,” he said.

He urged all LPPB officials and staff to maintain teamwork, stressing that the agency must remain financially sustainable through its core activities.

The National Audit Department’s report pointed to weaknesses in project management and coordination with third-party partners, underscoring the need for better oversight.

It could not be ascertained how many ongoing projects LPPB currently undertaking. 

In response, LPPB is implementing a series of measures aimed at strengthening internal controls, improving project monitoring, and ensuring smoother collaboration with external agencies.

For now, the agency is in damage-control mode, looking to restore public confidence and keep its housing projects on track. – February 9, 2025.