SABAH GOVT STRESSES GOOD GOVERNANCE, INTEGRITY AS CORNERSTONES OF ADMINISTRATION

By Rohana Nasrah

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- The Sabah Government under Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) places strong emphasis on good governance and integrity, which it considers fundamental pillars of the state’s administration.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said integrity and good governance are essential to ensuring Sabah remains on the right path toward sustainable progress and development.

He noted that this focus aligns with the Federal Government’s priorities under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who has consistently underscored the importance of sound governance in achieving effective administration.

“Yes, the Sabah Government I lead prioritises integrity and good governance, in line with what the Federal Government emphasises.

“We must embrace and follow this approach if we want to move forward. We cannot keep thinking in outdated ways,” he said in a recent exclusive interview with Bernama at his official residence in Sri Gaya, here.

On the allegations of corruption directed at his administration, Hajiji insisted the claims are baseless and politically motivated.

“Over the past five years, I’ve faced various challenges, accusations and slander. Some accusations are ill-intentioned and politically driven. They are untrue. InsyaAllah, we will continue focusing on a sound administrative system for Sabah,” he said.

On the implementation of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development plan, Hajiji acknowledged facing hurdles, including delays and funding constraints.

“However, strong governance enabled the state government to overcome these difficulties and deliver on planned initiatives,” he said.

The SMJ 1.0 roadmap (2021-2025) covers multiple societal sectors, with its first phase prioritising three core areas, namely agriculture, industry and tourism, as key economic drivers, supported by human capital development, public welfare, infrastructure networks and green sustainability.

Hajiji previously stated that since its launch in 2021, SMJ 1.0 has achieved encouraging results, with its outcomes now visible and benefiting the people.

-- BERNAMA