Sabah CM: SMJ 2.0 a catalyst for transformation

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 10): The state government is continuing to strengthen the implementation of the Sabah Maju Jaya 2.0 (SMJ 2.0) roadmap as a new leap phase to enhance the state’s competitiveness, productivity and economic value, while ensuring prosperity is shared inclusively among all segments of society regardless of race or background.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said SMJ 2.0 is not merely a continuation of previous development plans, but a catalyst for comprehensive transformation that requires enhanced capabilities, including changes in mindset, work culture and the creation of new value for the well-being of the people of Sabah.

“SMJ 2.0 represents a forward leap that emphasises economic development, human capital empowerment and the well-being of the people. Unity remains the key pillar for the state’s stability and prosperity,” he said in his speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese New Year Carnival 2026 at Dataran Deasoka here on Monday.

His speech was read by Rural Development Minister Datuk Rubin Balang.

Hajiji said the successful implementation of the SMJ 1.0 Development Plan has instilled confidence that Sabah is on the right track, while SMJ 2.0 has been formulated in alignment with the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) for the 2026–2030 period.

According to him, this continuous development approach is crucial to ensuring sustainable economic growth and enabling the state to address future challenges in a more strategic and integrated manner.

The Chief Minister also stressed that cultural diversity and harmony in Sabah’s multi-ethnic society form the foundation of the state’s social strength and must continue to be preserved.

“Carnivals like this reflect Sabah’s uniqueness as a state rich in cultural diversity, where every celebration is shared together in a spirit of mutual respect and goodwill,” he said.

He added that the state government’s inclusive approach is in line with its aspiration to build a peaceful, united and prosperous Sabah for all.

Hajiji also acknowledged the important role of the Chinese community as a strategic partner in the state’s development, particularly in the areas of economic growth, entrepreneurship, education and the preservation of cultural heritage.

In this regard, he said the state government will continue to support initiatives and active participation by Chinese community organisations as partners in implementing Sabah’s development agenda under the Sabah Maju Jaya framework.

He also expressed appreciation to the Sabah Chinese Associations Federation, which brings together more than 160 associations from across the state and the Federal Territory of Labuan, for its continued contributions in organising various community programmes.

According to him, close cooperation between the government and community organisations, regardless of race, is essential to ensure development policies are implemented comprehensively and effectively.

Hajiji concluded by extending his Chinese New Year 2026 greetings to the Chinese community in Sabah, expressing hope that the festive celebration will continue to catalyze unity, harmony and shared progress towards a brighter future for the state.