TUARAN, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has dismissed allegations that Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) is controlled by the Federal Government, calling the claims baseless political fiction circulated by rivals ahead of the state polls.
Hajiji, who is also GRS chairman, said the strong working relationship between the state and federal governments should not be misinterpreted, as such cooperation is necessary to ensure smooth development in Sabah.
“What matters is that we maintain good relations with the Federal Government if we want Sabah to progress,” he told reporters after attending the “Rumah Kita, Kita Jaga” campaign event in the Kiulu state constituency today. Also present was GRS candidate for Kiulu, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
Hajiji said close cooperation with Putrajaya is aimed at ensuring Sabah receives proper attention and support in development, investment and public welfare, without compromising the state’s rights.
He stressed that GRS remains the dominant political force in Sabah, and all state government decisions are made based on the people’s interests and the mandate given by voters.
Hajiji also criticised those pushing the narrative that “Sabah needs saving”, saying that Sabah does not need “saviours” but rather a stable government with a proven track record in developing the state.
Those who now claim to “save” Sabah, he said, had previously been given the opportunity to govern but failed to fulfil their responsibilities.
According to Hajiji, the opposition is using the narrative purely as political ammunition to confuse voters ahead of the 17th Sabah State Election.
Earlier in his speech, he said GRS has demonstrated its capability to govern Sabah through the implementation of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) roadmap and various economic, educational and social development initiatives.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to defending Sabah’s interests.
“As long as I am Chief Minister, I will safeguard Sabah’s interests as best as I can. Nothing will be given away to outsiders,” he added.
GRS is contesting 55 of the 73 seats in the state polls, with polling day set for Nov 29 and early voting taking place tomorrow.
For the latest on Sabah polls, visit Bernama’s microsite at https://prn.bernama.com/sabah/index.php
-- BERNAMA
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