Why is Sabah still poor despite being palm oil rich?

[superadmin]

SANDAKAN – Sabah generated RM1.8 billion from palm oil exports – the largest amount reaped from the product in the country – thanks to the massive planting of the cash crop on the state’s east coast.  

Although billions of ringgit are generated from the boom, most of the folks, especially in Tongod, Telupid and Beluran, are still living in abject conditions.

As a matter of fact, these are the poorest districts in the country. Villagers live without proper water and electricity supply. 

However, the boom in the oil palm sector after the pandemic has not provided any kind of steady employment to locals. 

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