Hajiji Noor steers Sabah from crisis to recovery

DATUK Seri Hajiji Noor took office as Chief Minister of Sabah in September 2020, confronting a state in turmoil.

 The COVID-19 pandemic was at its peak, the economy was in recession, and political uncertainty loomed.

Five years later, Sabah is on the road to recovery, guided by Hajiji’s strategic vision and leadership.

“I believe I am perhaps the only Chief Minister in Sabah’s history to face such monumental challenges from day one,” Hajiji said during an address to state civil servants in Kota Kinabalu.

His tenure began under extraordinary circumstances, including his own battle with severe COVID-19.

Despite these challenges, Hajiji implemented an ambitious economic recovery strategy that revitalized Sabah’s economy.

The state’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew at an average rate of 2.2% annually, with projections of 2.5% growth in 2025.

Key infrastructure projects such as the Kogopon II Water Treatment Plant and Ulupadas Hydroelectric Dam were launched to enhance water and energy security.

These initiatives are part of a broader effort to stabilise and sustain essential services across the state.

Hajiji also prioritised economic diversification, including the development of the Blue Economy Industrial Park in Kudat, aimed at harnessing Sabah’s maritime potential.

The park is expected to transform Kudat into The new industrial township, fostering growth in fisheries, marine tourism, and renewable energy.

Political stability was a crucial element in Hajiji’s approach.

Through strategic coalition-building, he maintained a stable relationship with the Federal Government, facilitating key policy agreements.

The Commercial Collaboration Agreement (CCA) with Petronas secured Sabah’s stake in oil and gas revenues, marking a significant achievement in resource management.

In 2024, state revenue reached RM6.842 billion, continuing a positive trend since 2021.

Hajiji expressed confidence that revenue could exceed RM7 billion or even approach RM8 billion in 2025, citing strategic economic policies and ongoing political stability.

Hajiji also focused on human capital development, enhancing training programs for over 4,000 civil servants and awarding 1,960 promotions.

Scholarship funds were increased from RM55 million in 2022 to RM128 million in 2025, supporting educational advancement for Sabah’s youth.

Reflecting on his leadership, Hajiji stated, “From battling COVID-19 on a hospital bed to navigating political storms, my commitment to Sabah never wavered.” - February 21, 2025