Hajiji (seated centre), Joachim (fourth left), Salleh (third right) and cabinet ministers at the GRS Backbenchers Conference at the SICC.
KOTA KINABALU: All elected representatives under the new Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government should equip themselves with latest information, including enhancing understanding of policies at the state and national levels.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said it was important not only to inspire confidence among the people, but also to shape formidable and visionary politicians.
“In the era of information…, anything that happens will be spread and gone viral easily. Hence, as a leader, we need to be ready with latest information, especially facts.
“Elected reps should also understand issues before taking action or making an official statement. We need to communicate clearly and accurately to avoid confusion among the people.
“The mindset of people nowadays is not the same as it was before, as many of our people are now educated and skilled, on par with international standards.
“The people, whether supporters or not, are watching our every move as their elected representatives. What we debate and how we deliver in the State Legislative Assembly gains media attention and becomes the talk of the people,” said Hajiji, when officiating the GRS Backbenchers Conference at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), today.
Also present were Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Dr Joachim Gunsalam, GRS Backbenchers Club chairman Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak and Sabah state cabinet ministers, as well as assistant ministers.
The conference was organised by the GRS Backbenchers Club together with the State Civil Service Department (JPAN) and the Institute for Development Studies (IDS) Sabah.
Hajiji went on to say that communicating virtually has become a new norm at all levels of society, especially in the younger generation.
“Surely this will be a challenge for representatives who have not mastered these skills in line with the change in trend. Virtual Office and Small Office and Home Office (SOHO) have also become increasingly important and widespread with the existence of various online applications that ease and expedite work and communication.
“Hence, I hope the activities of the GRS Backbenchers Club will continue and become a field for mental growth, to gain knowledge and experience for the development of the people and the state,” he said.
Hajiji also thanked leaders and elected representatives who continue to cooperate for the wellbeing of the people, especially those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
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