KOTA KINABALU – “Alhamdulillah, my back is still strong, but I will reserve my complaints here,” Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Billah Shah said when reflecting on his recent journey covering 759km across Sabah.
The king, who was accompanied by his family, embarked on this remarkable road trip from September 3, traversing the cities of Tawau, Lahad Datu, Sandakan, and Ranau to reach Kota Kinabalu yesterday.
During this journey, His Majesty demonstrated his dedication to the people of Sabah by taking note of all the complaints and concerns shared with him along the way.
He vowed to convey these grievances to the federal government and to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“In my enjoyable drive, I had my co-pilot record all the notes, including complaints, views and the breathtaking scenery I encountered.
“I will not voice these concerns here, but I will use them as a reminder during my visit and express them later,” the Yang di-Pertuan Agong added in his address at a state dinner at the Sabah International Convention Centre last night.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and members of the state cabinet were among those present at the dinner last night.
Al-Sultan Abdullah also brought attention to critical infrastructure issues during his journey, such as a damaged bridge near the Liwagu River in the Sandakan division, which has remained unrepaired since 2019, while describing the area as scenic and beautiful.
He acknowledged that addressing issues such as roads, electricity, and water supply takes time, considering Sabah’s vast size, but he pointed out that development could be achieved if the state has political stability and unity.
Explaining the motivation behind his extensive journey in the state, the king revealed that he had never before ventured beyond the state capitals of Sabah and Sarawak, namely Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, respectively.
He said this was the reason his drive in Sabah was named “Kembara Kenali Borneo,” as it allowed him and his family to explore Sabah outside of Kota Kinabalu.
The king also stated that this would be his family's last trip to Sabah as the royal family.
He went on to express his deep appreciation for the warmth and friendliness of the Sabahan people and was entertained when he was referred to as “Pakcik Agong” (King Uncle), “Abang Agong” (Brother King), or simply as “gung, gung, gung” (short for Agong) by the local folks.
“This is truly a fantastic reality. The harmony and unity shown to us truly symbolise Sabah and should serve as an example for all.
“I hope that with this visit, we can strengthen the bonds among the people of Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia,” he added.
Al-Sultan Abdullah noted significant progress in Kota Kinabalu since his last visit, particularly during his involvement in football years ago.
He also extended his congratulations to the chief minister for the excellent work being done in the state.
To mark the conclusion of his 985km journey across Sabah, the King will continue driving another 226km today, heading to Brunei via Sipitang. – The Vibes, September 7, 2023
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