Kota Kinabalu: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic) urged Sabahans to elect leaders who are dedicated to serve both Sabah and the nation.
He stressed that true development and economic progress can only be achieved through peace and cooperation between the State and Federal governments.
“Choose leaders who work hard for Sabah and for Malaysia. There is no business without peace and development will not happen without cooperation between the State and the Federal governments,” he said during the Prime Minister with Sabah Industry Association Session at Magellan Sutera Resort, Saturday.
“The Sabah election is not merely a political contest. It is about the nation, unity and the welfare of our people. My focus and that of my colleagues, including Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and his team, is to ensure Malaysia thrives as a strong and resilient nation with a robust economy.
“Of course, politics will always involve criticism, debates, claims and demands. That is normal. Everyone wants to be seen as a hero. But the real hero must be the nation, not individual party leaders,” he added.
Anwar emphasised that all parties, regardless of political affiliation, must prioritise unity and service above personal or partisan interests, with the people’s wellbeing at the core of governance.
“Harmony between the State and Federal governments is essential to ensure Sabah’s economic and social development progresses effectively. The relationship must be based on mutual respect and partnership. Only through close cooperation can we uplift living standards and create better opportunities for the people,” he said.
The Prime Minister also reiterated his firm stance against corruption.
“If you seek personal wealth or power, do not become a leader. Power must be used to serve the people, not to enrich yourself. As long as I am Prime Minister, I will not tolerate corruption,” he said.
Anwar underlined that his administration remains focused on strengthening the national economy through stability, good governance, and international cooperation. He highlighted Malaysia’s pragmatic diplomacy and strategic ties with countries like China and the United States.
“Diplomacy means engaging with everyone, even those we may disagree with. When I meet President Trump or President Xi Jinping, I don’t agree with everything they say, but we talk. That is how small countries like ours protect our interests,” he said.
He also paid tribute to Sabah’s vital role in Malaysia’s development, describing the State as a key partner in promoting national unity and inclusive growth.
“The Government’s efforts to attract investors, expand trade, and create job opportunities will not succeed without peace and cooperation. There is no business without peace. We cannot achieve development through division,” he said.
The Prime Minister called on Sabahans to uphold unity across all ethnic and cultural lines. “I am the Prime Minister for all Malaysians...Malays, Chinese, Sabahans, Sarawakians, Indians, everyone. Only through unity can we secure the future of this nation,” he said.
