Hajiji Confident the People Will Mandate GRS to Continue Governing Sabah

27 July 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor has reaffirmed his confidence that the people of Sabah will once again choose Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) to govern the state following the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election (PRN17).

He said this confidence stems from the solid track record demonstrated by the GRS-led state government over the past five years, having laid a strong foundation for Sabah’s development.

“When we formed the government almost five years ago, we began with determination and a clear vision , much like an architect building his grand home on strong, well-grounded pillars.

“That is how we’ve built this ‘house’ grounded in the aspirations and voices of the grassroots, with a strong local spirit and identity. We didn’t promise the moon and stars, but we did pledge to give our best for the benefit of all people.

“I believe the people are wise enough to decide who is best suited to govern after PRN17, and with the good record this government has shown, I am confident they will once again place their trust in GRS for the next five years.

“God willing, all our development plans will continue and come to fruition, ensuring continuity in governance and ongoing success,” he said in his keynote address during the Annual General Assembly of the Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Sunday.

Hajiji, who is also the President of Gagasan Rakyat and Chairman of GRS, acknowledged that PRN17 will be the most critical test for the coalition. He described it as the best opportunity to secure the people’s mandate in order to form a strong and stable state government.

He stressed that the development plans set in motion are not mere slogans, but have already begun to show tangible results through positive economic growth — and that a strong mandate from the people is essential to ensure this momentum continues.

He also emphasised that PRN17 should not be viewed as just another election, as it involves a serious responsibility that will determine the future of the state and the next generation.

“A GRS victory will give us a stronger voice in our efforts to develop Sabah. We’ll have a more solid position to claim and defend Sabah’s rights.

“However, if we fail to form the government, we would be squandering a golden opportunity to establish local political power as the main driver of Sabah politics.

“It is entirely possible that policies and plans currently progressing well could be altered or scrapped, just as we’ve seen in the past — and the ones who will suffer are the people, and the ones who lose are the state of Sabah,” he said.

Hajiji stressed that the GRS government has done its utmost to honour the mandate it received in the last election by fulfilling promises that were realistic and focused on the people of Sabah.

Meanwhile, Hajiji called on the entire Gagasan Rakyat machinery — from top leadership to the Women, Youth, and Young Women wings, down to grassroots members — to prepare for PRN17 and win the hearts of the people, particularly the younger generation.

“Work tirelessly for our beloved party! Use the time wisely to engage with the people. Listen to their needs, understand their struggles, and prove that Gagasan Rakyat is more than just a name.

“It’s time for us to step into the arena of this struggle with burning spirit and unwavering confidence — to fight for the people's future and the future of our beloved state of Sabah.

“God willing, we will win this election and earn an even greater, fresher, more meaningful and more resounding mandate from the people of Sabah,” he concluded.