KOTA KINABALU, April 2026: Bugaya Assemblyman, YB Jamil Hamzah expressed support for the Building Management Bill 2026, but urged that it be strengthened with clearer checks and balances mechanisms to ensure integrity and transparency in building management in Sabah.
While debating the bill in the Second Session of the 17th Sabah State Assembly on April 30, 2025, he stated that the rapid growth of stratified property development in Sabah requires a more robust management system.
According to him, the public often faces issues of poor maintenance, non-transparent fee collection, and disputes between owners and management.
"Bugaya welcomes the government's effort to introduce this bill as a step towards streamlining building management governance in the state," he said.
In the debate, he paid special attention to Part II regarding the appointment and powers of the Commissioner, which is described as the main regulatory body in building management.
He stated that the powers granted to the Commissioner must be accompanied by clear checks and balances mechanisms to enhance integrity in building management.
"Clear checks and balances are important for us to establish in the bill considering the issues of integrity and rampant corruption in the public and private sectors," he said.
He also linked this matter to the arrest of a senior GLC officer in Sabah by the MACC for suspected bribery.
"Although the reported amount is around RM16,000, for me, this issue is not about the numbers—it's about the trust and confidence of the people," he said.
He further stated that the issue of corruption is not just about individuals but reflects systemic failure if not addressed seriously.
"If senior officials can get involved, then the public will ask: What is happening in our system? Where is the internal control mechanism? Is the culture of integrity truly practiced or just a slogan?" he said.
In his speech, he also suggested that several concrete steps be included in the bill, including independent and periodic audits, transparency in procurement processes, asset declarations by senior officials, and protection for whistleblowers.
"Many know, but are afraid to speak. The system must protect them," he said.
He stated that the aspect of integrity is very important because the bill also involves developers, management corporations, government agencies, and GLCs.
"If integrity is not maintained, then the approval process can be misused, owners' rights can be compromised, and the system becomes unfair," he said.
In addition, he emphasized that enforcement against corruption cases must be carried out firmly and without favoritism.
"The public wants to see: Transparent prosecutions, appropriate punishments, no interference," he said.
He also stressed that good laws can fail if their implementation is weak and lacks integrity.
Touching on Clause 6 of the bill, he opined that the Minister's power to give directions and require information should be defined more specifically to avoid overly broad interpretations that could undermine the principles of good governance.
At the same time, he supported the need to file a strata schedule before property sales as this step can protect buyers from confusion and ensure transaction transparency.
However, he suggested that the approval timeframe be clearly defined, along with penalties imposed on developers who fail to comply with these requirements.
For Part IV regarding the establishment of management corporations, he emphasized the importance of empowering unit owners through clear guidelines on financial accountability, annual audit obligations, and easily accessible complaint mechanisms.
He also proposed that digitalization elements be included in the bill through an integrated management system, digital records of meetings and finances, and online access to information for owners.
"This will enhance transparency and efficiency," he said.
Concluding the debate, he stated that the Building Management Bill 2026 is a much-needed step forward, but its success depends on transparent, fair, and effective implementation.
"With the improvements that Bugaya proposes, Bugaya believes this bill can protect the interests of owners, ensure professional building management, and enhance the quality of life for the people of Sabah," he said.
