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SABAH’S new cabinet line-up is set to be officially sworn in at Istana Seri Kinabalu at 2pm today, marking the beginning of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah’s (GRS) second term in government. Only official media have been permitted to cover the ceremony.
The move follows the reappointment of Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor as chief minister for a second term, after he took his oath before Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman on Sunday morning.
Preparations at Istana Seri Kinabalu were reported to be complete in advance of the 2pm ceremony.
The 17th Sabah state election underscored the dynamic nature of the state’s politics. GRS emerged as the dominant coalition with 29 seats, closely followed by Warisan with 25.
The narrow four-seat difference reflected the intense competition, while voting patterns revealed GRS strength in the west, north, and interior regions, and Warisan dominance along the east coast, urban areas, and central Sabah.
The election also delivered several surprises.
DAP lost all eight contested seats, PKR secured only one, BN won six, and PAS claimed its first victory in Karambunai. Five independent candidates succeeded, highlighting the rising influence of grassroots voices.
Established political figures, including Datuk Seri Anifah Aman, Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia, Datuk Seri Salleh Keruak, and Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee, were defeated, emphasising that incumbency alone no longer guarantees electoral success.
During the 14-day campaign, two competing narratives shaped voter sentiment.
The “Sabah for Sabahan” movement emphasised the protection of state rights and local autonomy, while GRS promoted a cooperative Sabah–federal government approach, focusing on development through initiatives such as the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) agenda, which promises infrastructure, employment, and welfare programs.
Hajiji, speaking after his swearing-in, said: “Together, we will face challenges, seize new opportunities, and ensure that every voice, no matter how small, is heard and valued.”
He pledged a government that listens, acts, and delivers on its promises, signalling the start of a critical phase for Sabah’s administration as it balances rapid development, stable leadership, and protection of local rights.
The election results and the incoming cabinet mark a new chapter in Sabah politics, a landscape defined by vibrant, ever-changing dynamics and continual surprises. - December 1, 2025