SANDAKAN: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said only political stability, unity and strong solidarity can drive the development of the State and ensure the wellbeing of the people.
He stressed that greater development, including economic growth for the benefit of the people, can be achieved if the people remain united.
“The State Government has many plans to boost the economy, particularly through the three main thrusts of the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan.
“In fact, more initiatives will be implemented this year to further the development of the State and enhance the wellbeing of the people,” he said.
He emphasised that the struggle to assist the people is far from over.
“I urge the people, including in Sandakan, to continue placing their trust in the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-Pakatan Harapan (GRS-PH) Plus Government in the next election so that our efforts to develop the State can continue,” he said at the 2025 Sandakan District Chinese New Year Open House at Dewan Yu Yuan, here, on Wednesday.
The event was jointly organised by the Sandakan Parliamentary Office, Tanjong Papat Assemblyman’s Office, Karamunting Assemblyman’s Office and Sandakan Municipal Council.
Also present were Deputy Chief Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan and Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Sandakan MP Vivian Wong Shir Yee, Tanjong Papat Assemblyman Datuk Frankie Poon Ming Fung, Karamunting Assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin, Secretary to the Tanjong Papat Assemblyman who is also Chairman of Jetama Water Sdn Bhd Liau Fui-Fui, local leaders, invited guests and over 3,000 attendees.
Hajiji highlighted that economic performance, particularly in revenue collection, has continued to grow annually, increasing from RM4 billion to nearly RM7 billion last year.
“I believe that in the next two to three years, if GRS-PH Plus is given the mandate, revenue collection will exceed RM8 billion.
“Therefore, I urge the people not to be misled by the opposition’s false accusations and slander on social media against the Government.
“We will continue this positive progress, particularly in economic development and the wellbeing of the people.
“The State Government will also continue collaborating with the Federal Government to ensure more development is brought to the State,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hajiji acknowledged the significant role of the Chinese community in Sabah’s economic development and expressed hope that they would continue supporting the Government in advancing the State’s economy.
“I also want to assure that the current State Government is committed to treating all citizens fairly, regardless of their ethnicity or beliefs.
“This is our ongoing commitment, and I hope the people of Sandakan will continue supporting their elected representatives in this district,” he added.
Regarding Sandakan’s water supply issues, the Chief Minister said he would summon the State Water Department Director to address the matter.
“I want to gain a deeper understanding of the actual issues, and I will not tolerate any elements of sabotage in water management in the State, including in Sandakan,” he said.
Earlier, Poon, in his speech, encouraged the community to work together in strengthening Sandakan’s economy, society and culture for a brighter future in the new year.
Hiew emphasised the need for more investment to drive the local economy.
He stressed that harmony, unity and existing solidarity must be preserved and strengthened to further boost investor confidence in Sabah.
Regarding the water supply issues in the area, he assured that appropriate action was being taken to ensure consumer convenience.
Additionally, Wong highlighted the importance of maintaining the spirit of harmony among Sabah’s multi-ethnic and multicultural society.
Hajiji also attended the Chinese New Year open house hosted by Sabah Economic Advisory Council (SEAC) member Tan Sri Andrew Liew at his residence in Sandakan.
