Citizens Urged to Choose Wisely: Dr Joachim

7 September 2025

RANAU: Under the administration of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), the state’s development landscape has not only transformed but has recorded numerous significant achievements.

Deputy Chief Minister II, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam, stated that these accomplishments encompass the social, economic, educational and basic infrastructure sectors, all of which are essential to the people of Sabah.

“All of this has been realised through close cooperation between the State and Federal Governments via various initiatives introduced, whether through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan or the Madani Government initiatives,” he explained.

As such, he called on the people to make wise choices in the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election (PRN) to ensure the continued benefits of the SMJ Development Plan.

Dr Joachim, who is also the Minister of Local Government and Housing, made the remarks when officiating at the Mukim Timbua-level Independence Day and Malaysia Day Celebration at the Kg Timbua Mini Hall here yesterday (6 September).

In his address, he also reminded the people not to regard the celebrations of National Day, Sabah Day and Malaysia Day merely as commemorations of freedom from colonial rule.

“More importantly, these celebrations must serve as a platform to strengthen harmony and unity among the multi-ethnic communities,” he stressed.

At the same time, he emphasised that strong cooperation between the people and the Government must continue to be strengthened to ensure the successful continuity of the state’s development agenda.

Dr Joachim also extended his congratulations to the Organising Chairman, Mod Sably Kaimin, and all parties involved for successfully bringing together the Timbua community through a variety of activities.

The programme, which began on 31 August, featured activities such as a motorcycle convoy, zumba aerobics, the Jualan Rahmah sales, free health checks by the Health Department, Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) service counters, sales stalls, and traditional community games including tug of war.

Overall, he expressed satisfaction that the celebration was held in a lively and meaningful manner, successfully igniting patriotic spirit among the community.

Dr Joachim also appreciated the involvement of various groups, including the Timbua Motorcycle Club (KMT), the Department of Information, Belia Masjid As-Syarif, the Kampung Timbua Neighbourhood Watch (KRT), as well as the President of the Mesilou Volunteer Club (MEVOC), Samsul Sinun, who acted as programme adviser.

Present were Dr Joachim’s Political Secretary, Yubidi Gompoyo; Programme Director, Jasirin Musidi; Community Development Leader, Dounis Sani; Timbua Mukim Development Officer, Handdy Jaidi; the Native Chief’s Representative; Village Headmen; and Chairmen of the Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK).