SMJ 2.0 a Collective Trust of the People of Sabah

31 January 2026

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 direction launched by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor is not merely a policy framework or a political promise, but a major trust that must be shouldered collectively by all the people of Sabah.

Pro–Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) political activist Aksyah Haji Nasrah said the official launch of SMJ 2.0 demonstrates the state leadership’s seriousness in ensuring that Sabah stands on equal footing with other regions within the Federation of Malaysia.

He noted that the Chief Minister has consistently stressed that the SMJ 2.0 vision is a shared responsibility, not one borne solely by the leadership, but encompassing all segments of society regardless of role or status.

“SMJ 2.0 should not be viewed as a political pledge. It is a destination that must be reached by all Sabahans, whether leaders, civil servants, party members or ordinary citizens,” he said in a statement today.

Aksyah said the direction carries a significant mandate to develop Sabah into a progressive and successful state during the 2026–2030 period, while also serving as crucial preparation for future generations to compete in an increasingly challenging world.

“SMJ 2.0 does not belong to Hajiji. It is the noble aspiration of the people of Sabah and must be upheld collectively as a trust by every individual who calls this state home,” he said.

Commenting on the role of leadership, he emphasised the importance of a deep understanding of the policies and priority pillars outlined by the state government, rather than merely repeating narratives without genuine appreciation.

He also highlighted the critical role of the civil service in strengthening governance and administration, thereby ensuring effective service delivery that can be felt at the grassroots level.

At the same time, Aksyah said the public must play an active role through continuous feedback and more effective communication on policy achievements and areas for improvement, so that SMJ 2.0 truly takes root within society.

“From the Holy Land, I pray that the Chief Minister, as Sabah’s principal helmsman, together with the state leadership and public sector, is granted strength and wisdom to fully realise the SMJ 2.0 direction.

“The greatest contribution of the people of Sabah is sustained support. Each of us must internalise the meaning of this trust so that the SMJ initiative, now entering its second phase, can be successfully implemented together for the future of the state,” he said, who is currently performing the umrah pilgrimage in the Holy Land.