Hajiji: GRS can propel Sabah to greater heights

Borneo Post

12-07-2025

Hajiji (fourth right) officiating the closing gimmick of the PBS-STAR 2025 Convention.
PENAMPANG (July 12): Sabah has the potential to transform into a more developed, prosperous, peaceful and harmonious state if the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) continues to be given the mandate in the upcoming 17th State Election, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.
He stressed that in nearly five years of leading the State Government, various significant achievements have been realised — including the recovery of Sabah's economy and a notable increase in investments and state revenue.
'When we took over the state administration in September 2020, Sabah was facing the worst economic situation in its history.
'However, through careful planning and the implementation of the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan (SMJ 1.0), we not only managed to revive the economy but also elevated Sabah's performance to an impressive level,' said the GRS chairman when officiating the closing of the PBS-STAR Convention 2025 at Hongkod Koisaan, Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) here today.
According to Hajiji, one of GRS's key achievements is the rise in Sabah's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which increased to RM84.3 billion in 2024 from RM83.2 billion in 2023.
'State revenue collection for three consecutive years — 2022, 2023 and 2024 — has reached almost RM7 billion, compared to only RM3.59 billion in 2020. The State Government's reserves now stand at RM8.6 billion. Domestic and foreign investments brought into Sabah since 2021 amount to RM35.38 billion.
'All these are indicators of a healthy economy and proof of the capability and excellence of the GRS-led State Government. No one can deny this — only the opposition chooses to close their eyes to these facts,' he said.
Hajiji added that GRS is not only focused on driving economic growth but is also committed to completing basic infrastructure projects, eradicating hardcore poverty, and improving the wellbeing of the people.
'God willing, if GRS continues to be given the mandate, we will ensure that all the planned development programmes are fully implemented — from urban centres to the rural interior,' he said.
He further emphasised that the SMJ Development Plan is not just a document but a comprehensive long-term strategy encompassing human capital, natural resource management, and administrative efficiency.
'With strong political will, coupled with an improving economic climate and the political stability we have fought for since 2020, I am confident Sabah will progress far ahead as a developed, peaceful and prosperous state,' he added.
Hajiji also reminded all GRS leaders and members to remain steadfast in defending the coalition's mission, especially in the face of opposition slanders and attempts to weaken its political strength.
He said the success of the GRS administration has made the opposition uneasy, prompting them to launch continuous attacks and spread falsehoods against the government and its leaders.
'They will not stop. They are jealous of what we have achieved. They want us to fail, weaken and fall.
'Therefore, I remind you — our house must be protected by us. GRS is our house, our shelter, and the foundation of our struggle. If we don't defend it, who will?' he said.
Meanwhile, Hajiji described the PBS-STAR 2025 Convention as a historic moment that strengthens local political consensus and signals that GRS is ready to face the 17th State Election with a united and credible leadership team.
He said the close cooperation between Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) represents political maturity and the prioritisation of Sabah's welfare over ideological differences.
'This convention demonstrates the unity among local parties with distinct histories and principles, and proves that GRS is capable of advancing as a political coalition that truly represents the aspirations of the people of Sabah,' he said.