Hajiji, accompanied by guests, performing the launch gimmick for the Kuala Penyu and Menumbok Strategic Development Plan 2025-2035 in Menumbok.
MENUMBOK: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Hajiji Haji Noor has urged the people of Sabah to give their mandate to Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in the upcoming 17th State Election to ensure the continuity and acceleration of development under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 Development Plan.
He said a renewed mandate is crucial to sustain the momentum of progress already achieved through SMJ 1.0 (2021-2025) which has recorded significant accomplishments across multiple sectors.
“Give us a new mandate and we will drive more robust development under SMJ 2.0 for Sabah. The first phase of SMJ 1.0 has been successfully implemented, but there is still much more to be done to ensure continued progress for the state,” he said.
Hajiji said this when launching the Kuala Penyu and Menumbok Sub-District Strategic Development Plan 2025-2035 and officiating several community initiatives at the Tamu Pekan Menumbok site here today. These included the key handover ceremony for SMJ homes, the opening of Masjid Nur Ihsan Menumbok, the presentation of land gazettes and aid distribution by the Limus Jury Foundation.
Hajiji signing the plaque during the opening of Masjid Nur Ihsan Menumbok today.
Hajiji, who is the GRS Chairman, reminded the people not to be swayed by the rhetoric and unfounded accusations of opposition leaders who claim that the GRS-led Government has failed.
“Look at what we’ve achieved over the past five years — restoring the economy after the Covid-19 pandemic and maintaining political stability. There’s no reason not to choose GRS again. Much has been done and enjoyed by the people, and these efforts must continue for Sabah’s sustained benefit,” he said.
He stressed that it would be a loss if the people did not return GRS to power.
“We focus on helping our people, while others only know how to lie, slander and make empty promises without results — that’s their job,” said Hajiji.
Hajiji presenting a native residential land gazette to a village representative during the ceremony in Menumbok.
He reminded voters that some opposition leaders had previously held government positions, including ministerial posts, yet failed to solve long-standing rural issues.
“Now they say the GRS Government has failed. What failure? The problems we are dealing with were inherited from them — water, electricity and rural roads. What did they do when they were in charge?” he asked.
Hajiji also highlighted GRS’ success in attracting a record number of local and foreign investors, thanks to its pro-investment policies.
“Dozens of domestic and international companies have invested in various sectors, including tourism, which not only boosts the economy but also creates many job opportunities,” he said.
Hajiji handing over a replica key for Rumah Mesra SMJ unit to a recipient during the handover event in Menumbok.
He added that the Government is committed to sharing the fruits of development with the people.
“This year alone, around 100,000 low-income citizens are receiving RM300 monthly assistance. Through the Welfare Department, 70,000 people — including persons with disabilities and senior citizens — are receiving aid compared to only 30,000 previously,” he said.
Under the Rumah Mesra SMJ Programme, 40 houses were built this year, with plans to increase to 50 next year — including 10 for newly married couples who cannot yet afford their own homes.
“This has never been done before,” said Hajiji.
Hajiji together with Datuk Limus Jury, guests and the public at the launch of the Kuala Penyu and Menumbok Sub-District Strategic Development Plan 2025-2035, SMJ house key handover, mosque opening, land gazette presentation and Limus Jury Foundation aid presentation in Menumbok.
He added that the education sector remains a top priority, with RM1.3 billion allocated over the past five years for scholarships and other educational assistance.
On the newly launched Kuala Penyu and Menumbok Sub-District Strategic Development Plan 2025-2035, Hajiji said the document aligns with the SMJ agenda to ensure balanced and inclusive progress for both districts.
During the event, Hajiji also officiated the RM3.26 million Masjid Nur Ihsan Menumbok, completed on March 27 with funding from the Prime Minister’s Department (ICU).
He also expressed appreciation to the Limus Jury Education Foundation for assisting 5,350 students in Kuala Penyu and Menumbok through various educational initiatives.
At the ceremony, Hajiji handed over three native residential land gazettes under Section 78 — involving Kampung Mansud (6.268 hectares), Kampung Purun (13.740 hectares) and Kampung Tanjung Aru (24.339 hectares).
