Caretaker Chief Minister and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called out opposition parties for acting like “snake oil salesmen,” urging them to stop misleading voters with unrealistic promises as the 17th Sabah State Election approaches on November 29.
Speaking at the launch of GRS’s election machinery in Kota Kinabalu today, Hajiji stressed that Sabahans are seeking genuine solutions, not empty political rhetoric, according to Bernama.
“Enough with the snake oil salesmanship. Stop peddling illusions that only deceive the people, who are genuinely yearning for real solutions and a better life,” Hajiji said, criticising opposition claims such as resolving Sabah’s water issues within a year or producing 50,000 engineers in a short period.
“The people are now wiser and can discern who is truly capable of governing Sabah well and who merely thrives on rhetoric and empty promises.”
A Proven Track Record
Hajiji, who also leads Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS), highlighted the GRS-led government’s achievements over the past five years, underscoring its capability in steering Sabah toward significant progress.
The state recorded its highest-ever revenue, driven by robust growth in tourism and agriculture, alongside strengthened education and human capital development initiatives.
To address critical infrastructure needs, Hajiji noted that the government is implementing 18 water projects across Sabah, including water treatment plants in Tawau and Papar, to ensure a stable supply of treated water. These efforts reflect a commitment to delivering practical solutions that resonate with Sabahans, who value tangible results over lofty promises.
A Strong Coalition
In the state assembly dissolved last week, the GRS-led coalition held a commanding 54 seats, with GRS itself securing 40 seats through PGRS (26), Parti Bersatu Sabah (7), Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah (1), and five direct GRS members.
Coalition partner Pakatan Harapan contributed seven seats via PKR (4), DAP (2), and Upko (1), while three seats were held by Umno and other minor local parties. The opposition, led by Warisan with 14 seats and Barisan Nasional (Umno) with three, trailed significantly.
