Political Stability prioritised, ensures sustained Development

5 October 2025

SANDAKAN: A stable government is essential to ensure lasting prosperity and continuous development for the people, said Karamunting Assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin.

He stressed that political stability forms the foundation of a state’s progress, as frequent changes in government disrupt policies, halt projects, and ultimately harm public welfare.

“If the current government fails to retain its mandate, all planned projects would have to start over, delaying progress and burdening the people,” he said.

George, who also serves as Chairman of Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) Karamunting Division, made the remarks during the 2025 Mooncake Festival organised by Gagasan Rakyat at SK Sung Siew here on Saturday night (4 October).

Reflecting on Sabah’s political changes since 2018, he noted that the fall of Barisan Nasional (BN) after decades in power, followed by Parti Warisan’s collapse in 2020, had disrupted governance and continuity.

“When Warisan chose not to join forces with Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), the State Legislative Assembly was dissolved, prompting a fresh state election in July that year. After the failed ‘Langkah Kinabalu’ attempt, Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor remained as Chief Minister and continued to lead through Gagasan Rakyat,” he explained.

He said history had proven that frequent changes in government only bring instability and stagnation.

“Changing the government does not automatically mean progress. Development doesn’t happen overnight,” he added.

George pointed to Sarawak as an example of consistent growth achieved under the steady leadership of Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), which has maintained cooperation and stability in its administration.

“In just two years since the formation of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), Sabah has gained attention and allocations from the Federal MADANI Government. Major projects such as the Pan Borneo Highway, foreign investments, and infrastructure initiatives are all outcomes of political stability,” he said.

He urged voters to continue supporting the GRS government in the upcoming 17th State Election to ensure sustained development and a stronger state economy.

On his work in Karamunting, George said he has prioritised serving the people since his election in 2018, even during his time in the opposition.

“When I was in the opposition, it was difficult even to fix a single streetlight due to bureaucratic obstacles. Now, under Gagasan Rakyat, government agencies are able to work together, and development is progressing in stages,” he said.

He noted that nearly 1,000 solar-powered streetlights have been installed across the constituency in recent years through cooperation with local authorities, Sabah Electricity, the Water Department, the Public Works Department (JKR), and the Sewerage Services Department.

“There are still shortcomings that need to be addressed, but I hope the people will remain patient. I will continue to work to secure more development funding,” he said.

George also encouraged the public, including those from outside the area, to visit and engage directly for accurate information rather than spreading misconceptions.

“Politics should not be used as a platform for slander or sympathy-seeking. My focus remains on serving the people and solving their problems on the ground,” he said.