TAWAU: Former Federal Chief Secretary Datuk Ruji Ubi confirmed readiness to be fielded as a Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) candidate for the Merotai seat in the 17th state election.
His stance responds to support from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is PKR President cum PH Chairman, in the mission to defeat incumbent Merotai Assemblyman, Warisan’s Sarifuddin Hata.
Anwar has so far not openly said who is the poster boy for the CM post in the event PH garners most seats with or without the help of coalition partners. PH currently has the advantage of support from both Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and Barisan Nasional coalitions.
Ruji said his team has been conducting groundwork since July 24, engaging with constituents and setting up operation rooms.
“I am working hard from morning until dawn, meeting with communities in Pasir Putih, Sungai Imam and Sungai Haji Matahir including now at Hotspring,” he said.
He said key party leaders have already visited Merotai, including the PKR President cum PH Chairman, Deputy President and Vice President.
“I want to be a bridge between Merotai and Putrajaya, so I hope the people of Merotai can seize this opportunity and reciprocate the Prime Minister’s trust by delivering victory to the PH,” he told reporters during a community gathering at Hotspring, attended by PKR Deputy President Nurul Izzah Anwar.
The former chief secretary at three federal ministries believes Sabah needs leaders who not only talk but work to ensure the Federal Government’s substantial allocations are fully used.
He noted that the RM6.9 billion allocation approved by the Prime Minister for Sabah in the 2026 Budget requires elected representatives capable of implementing projects to achieve the State’s development agenda and people’s welfare.
“Although some may consider me a newcomer, I have experience in development matters and implementing important projects throughout the State, so I am highly confident of winning in Merotai.” He described cooperation among Unity Government coalition parties as excellent.
Ruji said two projects planned during his tenure as Chief Secretary of the Home Ministry will be implemented soon – the Kalabakan District Police Headquarters project costing RM150 million with its ground-breaking ceremony held on Sunday and the Nabawan District Police Headquarters project to be launched soon.