KOTA KINABALU – Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor may look like a meek leader but his political “silat” (crisis management) is not to be underestimated, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The prime minister has praised the Sabah chief minister for his handling of the recent crisis and stabilising the state government in a short time.
“In fact, Hajiji in his gentleness, his political kicks and silat were very good. In a short time, he was able to stabilise the state government.
“I believe there will be no more political tension in Sabah,” said Anwar during his keynote address to the civil service here today.
Anwar said this in reference to political developments in Sabah following the crisis on January 6.
Since the crisis, a string of elected representatives from the opposition Warisan and Umno has since abandoned their parties to join Hajiji’s new party Gagasan Rakyat Sabah.
Hajiji now has obtained the majority support of the assemblymen in the state.
According to Anwar, the federal position is for Sabah to form a similar unity government but due to the “peculiar” political situation of the state, he is leaving the matter for Sabah to resolve.
He also appeals to all political quarters in the state to give Hajiji the chance to lead Sabah, adding that his detractors should keep the peace until the next round of elections.
“If anyone wants to gamble, wait until the next election. But now let's build the state and look after the people,” he said. – The Vibes, February 28, 2023
