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SABAH Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has firmly rejected the notion of a “Borneo Bloc” purportedly designed to separate Sabah and Sarawak from Peninsular Malaysia, emphasising that no such regional bloc has ever existed and that all states and federal territories must cooperate for the country’s continued success.
Speaking to the media after officiating the launch of the Higher Education Student Assistance Initiative in Sabah (SENTOSA) 2026 at Dewan Rafflesia, Politeknik Kota Kinabalu, Hajiji stressed, “There is no Borneo Bloc, we in Malaysia are one country… there is no Borneo Bloc, no Sabah, Sarawak or Peninsular Bloc, none.
“So, I want to state that as one country we need cooperation from all parties — between states and the Federation, between neighbouring states — to ensure Malaysia continues to excel.”
Hajiji’s comments respond to assertions by former Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Legal Affairs), Datuk Zaid Ibrahim, who claimed the so-called Borneo Bloc was intended to dominate the Peninsular.
The Chief Minister dismissed such claims as baseless, reaffirming Sabah’s commitment to collaboration with the federal government and other states.
In addition to addressing the political issue, Hajiji highlighted the state government’s vigilance regarding the ongoing Middle East conflict and its potential impact on oil prices, which will affect both Sabah and the wider Malaysian economy.
During the SENTOSA launch, Hajiji presented cash assistance to 3,366 Sabah students at Politeknik Kota Kinabalu.
The initiative, part of a larger scheme benefiting approximately 30,000 students this year, aims to ease financial burdens, particularly for those returning home during festive seasons.
Hajiji noted that SENTOSA is one of 14 state-backed education initiatives, collectively worth hundreds of millions of ringgit, designed to support Sabah residents through access to higher education.
“These initiatives reflect our commitment to the welfare of Sabah’s youth, ensuring they have the resources to build their futures, support their families, and contribute to the state’s development,” he said. - March 5, 2026