SABAH Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has dismissed allegations that his administration issued mining leases, describing recent claims circulating in video clips as false and politically motivated.
“The State Government has never issued a mining lease to any party under my administration. Any claims suggesting otherwise are entirely untrue,” Hajiji said in a statement in Kota Kinabalu,.
He explained that the state has only issued prospecting licenses for mineral exploration and data collection, which are required before any mining lease applications can be considered.
Hajiji accused certain parties of using the issue as political propaganda to create confusion and destabilise the state government.
“We will not bow to efforts aimed at undermining Sabah’s political stability,” he said.
The Chief Minister revealed that the group had applied for nearly one million acres of land, including totally protected zones, water catchment areas, and conservation sites.
Their application was rejected, after which several video clips emerged, which Hajiji claimed were intended to threaten the government.
He also refuted allegations of bribery and misconduct involving elected representatives, calling them baseless.
“These edited and malicious videos are a desperate attempt to tarnish the government’s reputation and disrupt Sabah’s political stability,” he said.
Hajiji reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice, transparency, and integrity, urging Sabahans to remain united in building a more progressive and prosperous state. - December 5, 2024
