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SABAH is preparing a significant recalibration of its political framework, with the state government set to pursue constitutional amendments that would limit the tenure of the chief minister to two terms, or a maximum of 10 years.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the proposal is part of a broader reform agenda that his administration intends to advance following its strong electoral showing.
The planned amendments also include expanding the size of the state cabinet to meet administrative demands and redesignating assistant ministers as deputy ministers to better reflect their responsibilities.
“We now hold a two-thirds mandate to govern the state. This provides stability, which will benefit the people,” Hajiji said when unveiling the Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 development roadmap.
The reform push follows the conclusion of the 17th Sabah state election, which Hajiji characterised as evidence of a mature and orderly democratic process.
He said the polls were conducted smoothly and without incident, reinforcing public confidence in the state’s political system.
Hajiji said the election outcome sent a clear signal from voters, with Sabahans returning Gabungan Rakyat Sabah and its partners to power for another five-year term.
“This mandate is not merely a political victory but a duty that must be carried out responsibly,” he said.
By proposing limits on executive tenure alongside structural changes within the state administration, Hajiji is seeking to frame his leadership as reformist rather than entrenched.
If adopted, the two-term cap would mark a notable shift in Sabah’s political culture and could reshape expectations of executive power and accountability at the state level. - January 30, 2026