Hajiji: Opposition spreading 'fabricated' issues ahead of Sabah election

Borneo Post

27-07-2025

Hajiji with GRS component parties' leaders, Gagasan Rakyat leaders and delegates of the convention.
KOTA KINABALU (July 27): Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor has stressed that many of the issues raised by the opposition ahead of the 17th State Election are deliberately fabricated to mislead the people.
He said various issues currently being circulated on social media have become one of the biggest challenges faced by the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government in its efforts to retain power in the upcoming state election.
According to him, these are part of the opposition's propaganda and deceitful tactics aimed at tarnishing GRS's reputation and manipulating public perception for political gain.
'The upcoming state election brings 1,001 challenges for us. The challenge is not because the opposition is strong or we are weak, but because we are faced with lies, falsehoods, fabricated stories and above all, slander.
'Today, social media has become the most popular medium for spreading propaganda. Every day, various stories, fake video clips, and false infographics are widely circulated.
'This is the opposition's method of attack in the digital realm and we must fight back with all our might! We must not allow lies, deceit, and slander to dominate or influence this election, as we saw happen in the past two elections.
'The issues being played up are not all true or accurate! Many are fabricated and designed to deceive the people,' he said.
Hajiji said this in his keynote address at Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) annual general convention at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Sunday.
The Chief Minister's firm stance came in response to various accusations and allegations thrown at GRS and its leaders as the state election looms.
Hajiji, who is also the GRS chairman, said such tactics can lead to endless political chaos.
'Spreading slander and lies is the dirtiest form of politics, something we strongly condemn. We must not fall into the trap of playing such dirty politics. Not only is it wrong and a major sin, but any party that wins through slander and lies will not last, because eventually, the truth will come to light,' he said to the more than 3,000 delegates attending the convention.
In his speech, Hajiji highlighted that GRS had achieved many successes as a responsible, trustworthy, and hardworking government focused on bringing progress and transformation to the state and its people.
Reflecting on the past five years of governance, building GRS, and the formation of Gagasan Rakyat, he said Sabahans can now see a 'home' built upon shared struggles, sincerity, dreams, and aspirations.
The Gagasan Rakyat President said that while his party is still relatively young, it is backed by seasoned leaders.
'The members of Gagasan Rakyat are no ordinary individuals, they are battle-hardened political warriors, with vast experience, calmness, and resilience in the face of challenges, having endured both the ups and downs of political life while defending principles and dignity.
'As veteran politicians, we are experienced defenders and fighters! Our past struggles, combined with the great journey through GRS and Gagasan Rakyat, have shaped us into politically mature individuals, rich in experience, ideas, knowledge, and both political and governance acumen.
'With this in mind, we no longer need to feel inferior or hesitant in the face of outside politicians, especially the opposition or those who are anti-government and act as if they know everything,' he said.
Meanwhile, Hajiji said that as part of the GRS-led government, Gagasan Rakyat and other coalition partners had successfully completed a full term in office with commendable achievements.
He added that despite facing challenges, trials, and constant attacks by the opposition who often belittle the government's efforts by branding it as weak and incompetent, the results GRS has delivered cannot be denied.
He pointed out that when such narratives failed to shake public confidence or tarnish the government's image, political opponents resorted to even dirtier tactics by spreading propaganda, lies, and slander.
'I am aware that there are those who envy us, jealous of our success and achievements. They want to see us weak and divided. They aim to shame and bring down our dignity through various accusations, defamation, and slander widely spread to deceive the people.
'They will not stop spreading propaganda and lies! They are our enemies…enemies who want to see us fall, break, and lose this election. They will continue to attack and belittle our hard work and efforts,' he said.
For this reason, he called on all GRS members and leaders to remain cautious and vigilant against covert efforts to undermine the government and its leadership.
'I believe all of you know what I mean. This is my sincere reminder: let us take good care of GRS. GRS is our home, our shelter, and the place where we chart our political struggle,' he said. 17th state election fabricated hajiji noor issues lead opposition