Guandee takes oath as Deputy Minister 

Kuala Lumpur: Senator Datuk Guandee Kohhoi (pic) took the oath of office as a Deputy Federal Minister before Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, Friday.

Guandee, who is Sabah’s Party Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star) Secretary-General, took the oath of office at a ceremony at Istana Negara, here.

The ceremony was witnessed by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.

Also present were Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri and Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee.

Meanwhile, Guandee, when met after the ceremony, confirmed that he was appointed Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

“I thank Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin for giving this opportunity for Star to be in the Federal Cabinet,” he said and expressed his hope to revitalise the tourism sector, which is one of the sectors affected by Covid-19.

Meanwhile, Star President Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said the appointment of Guandee as a Deputy Minister is beneficial to Sabah and a recognition of the party by the Federal Government.

Jeffrey said he is pleased as Guandee would be able to carry on the work he started when held the role last year.

“Even though my tenure at the Ministry was brief, I was fully dedicated to it,” he said.

“I left the Ministry with a heavy heart as I felt like I was already a part of this Ministry, but I am relieved that someone who shares my ideal has taken my place.

“Kohoi is already acquainted with the Ministry as he was always with me when I held his current post. As a result, he is no stranger to the demands and responsibilities of this Ministry.

 “As we all know, the tourism industry is critical to Sabah’s economy and with him in charge, industry players will have a friend who understands Sabah’s situation better,” he said.

 Jeffrey, who held the role since March last year, vacated it after being appointed Deputy Chief Minister.