Kota kinabalu: The good relationship and cooperation between the Sabah Government and the Federal Government need to be strengthened for an even better future of the state. Hajiji, who is also the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman, emphasized the importance of a close state-Federal relationship to further boost Sabah's progress and stressed the need to maintain and continue the strong collaboration that has been forged.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hajiji highlighted that the current state government comprises GRS and PH (Pakatan Harapan), and the relationship between the state government and the Federal government is very strong. He noted that during PH's administration, Sabah secured nine devolutions of power under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). He stated, "We must realize that the state-Federal relationship is extremely vital for the future and progress of Sabah. Why should we have a dispute with the Federal government?"
Earlier, Hajiji announced that the Sabah State Legislative Assembly had been officially dissolved to make way for the 17th Sabah State Election. He elaborated on the need to safeguard Malaysia's national interests alongside Sabah's ongoing efforts to claim and defend its rights as enshrined in MA63. Hajiji said the decision to dissolve the state assembly reflected the Sabah government's commitment to democracy and constitutional processes.
He expressed hope for a new mandate from the people to continue building a stronger, more prosperous, and united Sabah. Hajiji highlighted the efforts of the Sabah Government over the past five years through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan Roadmap, focusing on agriculture, industry and tourism, human capital and people's well-being, infrastructure network, and green sustainability.
Concrete actions and several major projects have been carried out to resolve long-standing challenges, with some initiatives completed and others ongoing. Sabah has strengthened its economy, attracted new investments, expanded access to education, and improved social well-being. However, Hajiji acknowledged that new challenges demand bold solutions to take Sabah to the next chapter.
Following the dissolution of the state assembly, Sabah is now governed by a caretaker government, and Hajiji will continue his duties as Chief Minister until a new state government is formed.