GABUNGAN Rakyat Sabah (GRS) leader Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor today highlighted Sabah’s strong economic growth but cautioned party leaders against exaggerating achievements, reminding them that the election is imminent.
Speaking at the Parti Gagasan Rakyat (Gagasan) Sabah function in Kota Kinabalu, Hajiji, who is also the party’s president, celebrated the state’s robust economy, citing record-breaking investments of RM11.34 billion and revenue exceeding RM7 billion in 2023.
"This is the highest investment Sabah has seen, placing us seventh in the nation," Hajiji said, praising his administration’s investor-friendly approach.
However, he reminded party leaders to keep their portrayals grounded and address misinformation within the party and from rivals.
He said he had several times found out the truth about a situation directly from the people, unlike what his own party leaders had reported.
“Reports should reflect the true pulse of the people, not just rosy colours,” he said.
Hajiji stressed that with the election nearing, transparent portrayals are essential to maintain public trust and secure a renewed mandate for continued progress.
Hajiji hinted that the Sabah state election could be called at any time, as the legislature’s current term allows for dissolution by October 2025.
“We need a fresh mandate to continue implementing our SMJ (Sabah Maju Jaya) agenda,” he said, signalling readiness to secure public support for the next five years.
Emphasising political stability, he added, “Without unity within our ranks, we risk undermining the very progress we’ve achieved.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating poverty, pledging housing and job opportunities for the hardcore poor.
“Our focus remains on the well-being of every Sabahan, ensuring they feel the benefits of our programs,” he said.
Hajiji also underscored the importance of state autonomy, advocating for local parties to lead Sabah’s governance.
"Sabahans want their voices heard through local platforms," he stressed, echoing the pillars of Sabah Maju Jaya: political stability, state prosperity, and welfare guarantees.
He closed by urging party members to strengthen grassroots connections, saying, “Our strength lies in the sincerity and dedication with which we serve the people.” – November 10, 2024
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