SANDAKAN: Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Sungai Manila candidate Hazem Mubarak Musa said his position as the son of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri (TYT) Sabah should not be politicised by any party during the Nov 29 election campaign.
He said the TYT is the Head of State who is not permitted to campaign or vote, and therefore any attempt to link his political involvement to his father’s position is baseless.
“I have always clarified that the TYT cannot interfere in politics. I am contesting on my own capacity, not because of my family background,” he said.
He said this during a press conference at the Media Engagement Programme held in here on Monday.
Hazem also revealed that the only advice his father gave him before he entered politics was to ensure that all his actions benefit the people and prioritise their welfare.
Meanwhile, he said water issues remain the main complaint among Sungai Manila residents, adding that it is a long-standing problem affecting many parts of Sabah.
“If I am given the mandate, resolving the water issue will be my focus. We will call the relevant authorities to identify the root cause and bring the matter to the highest level for a long-term solution,” he said.
Hazem emphasised that special attention will also be given to the youth in Sungai Manila, many of whom hold degrees and skills but face limited job opportunities in their area.
“We will engage with the youth, understand their needs, and assist them through skills programmes and suitable employment opportunities,” he said.
He also reaffirmed the GRS government's commitment to safeguarding the people’s welfare, including ongoing assistance such as the RM300 monthly Bantuan Ehsan, which he said has been especially helpful for rural communities.
On the increased number of candidates in this Sabah election, Hazem said it reflects a healthy democracy, as voters now evaluate candidates based on capability and integrity, not merely the party they represent.
