KOTA KINABALU: Tun Juhar Mahiruddin, the longest-serving Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sabah, has concluded his historic four-term tenure, stepping down from a post he held since January 1, 2011. Juhar, who became the 10th Yang Dipertua Negeri, presided over a period marked by significant events and robust developments across multiple sectors in Sabah.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, during Juhar's 14 years of service, Sabah showcased remarkable resilience in the face of various challenges, including the 2013 Lahad Datu intrusion and the global COVID-19 pandemic. The state also recorded notable economic milestones, achieving RM7 billion in state revenue and securing RM1.7 billion in investments in 2024 from both domestic and international investors.

Juhar was succeeded by Tun Musa Aman, who was officially sworn in as the 11th Yang Dipertua Negeri. At an appreciation banquet held on December 30, Juhar emphasized the importance of focusing on the people of Sabah, whom he described as the foundation and driving force behind the state's progress and success. He urged continued collaboration between the state and federal governments, highlighting their exceptional efforts in implementing initiatives aimed at enhancing public welfare and national development.

Reflecting on his tenure, Juhar expressed his gratitude to the people of Sabah for their unwavering support and commitment to advancing the state. He underscored the need for ongoing cooperation to ensure Sabah's continued growth.

Juhar, 71, was born on November 5, 1953, in Kampung Tambisan, Sandakan. He holds a law degree from The Polytechnic, Wolverhampton, and qualified as a Barrister-at-Law from Lincoln's Inn, London. His career in public service began as a First Class Magistrate in 1982, and he later served as political secretary at the Sabah Chief Minister's Office from 1986 to 1989.

In 1990, he was elected as the Member of Parliament for the Kinabatangan constituency, a position he held until 1999, during which he also served as Deputy Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat. Juhar subsequently served as Sabah State Assembly Speaker from 2002 to 2010. He is married to Toh Puan Norlidah RM Jasni, and the couple has two sons and two daughters.