Civil Servants Key Assets in Driving Government Policies

26 September 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Civil servants are the state government’s most valuable assets in implementing policies and translating them into concrete actions for Sabah’s development.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor stressed that without the support, commitment and efficiency of the civil service, government plans, including the implementation of the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan, could not be realised effectively.

“I am confident that all SMJ initiatives will be successfully carried out with the help of public servants who are healthy, energetic and competent. They are the state government’s main assets, ensuring every policy is translated into actions that bring direct benefits to the people,” he said.

Hajiji conveyed this in his speech at the closing ceremony of the 14th Chief Minister’s Department (JKM) Muhibbah Sports Festival 2025, held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Friday. His remarks were delivered by the Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Nizam Datuk Seri Panglima Abu Bakar Titingan.

He emphasised that the Muhibbah Sports Festival is not merely a competitive arena but a platform to foster solidarity, discipline and unity among public servants.

“The values of friendship and goodwill fostered here are more important than simply chasing victory. Sports serve as a bridge of unity, transcending position and background,” he added.

Hajiji also urged civil servants, especially departments and agencies under the Chief Minister’s Department, to continue working together in sharing the state government’s past, ongoing and future initiatives with the wider community.

The festival, which began on 19 September, saw the participation of seven teams: JKM Perdana, the Sabah Lands and Surveys Department, Sabah Forestry Department, Sabah Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAINS), Sawit Kinabalu, Yayasan Sabah and Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK).

A total of 15 main events were contested, along with five new additions, e-sports, pétanque, chess, carrom and darts — showcasing the sporting spirit and talents of the civil service.