THERE are no forces with ill intent that can break Sabah, as long as the people remain united, Chief Minister Hajiji Noor said.

Hajiji said, as chief minister, he is committed to see to that the state stays united, prosperous and inclusive in the coming year.

“We are strong only when we are united. When we are united we will be able to withstand any attempt to undermine stability, and to ensure that development can proceed unhindered,” he said in his New Year 2024 message in Kota Kinabalu today.

Hajiji said he was touched and grateful to the people and all like-minded supporters who have stood by the government, believing in its sincerity to do what is best for Sabah.

“Let us put politics aside and discard any divisiveness that will only pull us apart. We must forge forward into the new year with resolve, united in diversity, and committed to doing good, in accordance with the mandate given to us by the rakyat,” he said.

He said with the people’s support, the state government had made great strides in progressing its development plan under the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) framework , and despite the challenges, it has been steadfast in implementing the SMJ agenda, and staying on course to see it through.

Hajiji said the recently passed state budget for 2024, amounting to RM5.701 billion, was a testament to the state government’s commitment to drive economic growth and development in Sabah.

“Our commitment to growth remains unwavering. We have set our sights on the many opportunities the state can leverage in all sectors. We will continue to build on our successes and pursue new investment opportunities, to create economic spin-offs and create jobs for the people,” he said.

However, he said that all these successes and plans will account for nothing without the combined efforts and commitment of all, as well as a conducive environment to pursue the development goals. – Bernama, December 31, 2023.