GRS proposes two-term limit for Sabah CM, eyes big win to push reform

Borneo Post

7 days ago

Armizan and Onn Norshal enjoying the movie Impak Maksima 2.
PAPAR (July 17): Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) has had its first meeting to draft its manifesto for the upcoming Sabah state election, which includes to limit the chief minister's tenure to two consecutive terms.
GRS deputy secretary-general Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said he was entrusted by the coalition's chairman cum Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor to chair the task force responsible for formulating the election manifesto and the first meeting comprising representatives from the eight component parties was held on Tuesday night.
He said the manifesto consists of two components – the first highlights the efforts and determination in the four pillars of GRS' of struggle, namely Sabah First, Sabah Forward, Sabah Prosper and Sabah United.
The second component outlines GRS' achievements for the past five years and work in progress, he said.
Armizan, who is also the Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living and Member of Parliament for Papar, said that after launching 10 Star Film Community and the movie premiere of Impak Maksima 2 at the Majestic Ballroom in Parklane City here on Wednesday.
He said the coalition had implemented the Hala Tuju Sabah Maju Jaya 1.0 since it was given the mandate by the people to form the State Government in 2020.
He said the manifesto will demonstrate GRS' commitment in walking the talk and the works that are in progress.
For example, Armizan said under the Sabah United pillar, efforts are not only focused on creating a united society, but also on the commitment of all Sabahans to build better governance.
'One of the key points under this initiative is to set a limit of two consecutive terms for the chief minister's tenure.
'This proposal was decided by the GRS-PH Plus State Cabinet in December 2023.
'This reform requires an amendment to the State Constitution, which must be approved by a two-thirds majority of the State Assembly members.
'Therefore, GRS needs a major victory that exceeds a two-thirds majority in the upcoming state election to ensure that this initiative in the manifesto can be passed in the State Legislative Assembly.'
Armizan said the proposal was well received by the component parties in GRS.
On another note, Armizan commended 10Star Cinemas for its 10 Star Film Community initiative, which includes CineRity charity programme, CineTalk sharing session, CineWaness awareness programme, CineFilm on film distribution and CineShort on short film screenings.
He said the initiatives could help develop the creative industry in Malaysia, especially Sabah, as well as providing a platform for talents in the state.
He said Sabah has major potential in the creative industry due to our local talents, unique cultures and natural resources which should be leveraged with strategic development plans with stakeholders with the experience and expertise.
He said 10Star Cinemas could be one of the State Government's stakeholders to develop the creative industry in Sabah, given their investments in the state.
'10Star Cinemas currently operates six cinemas in Sabah, while two new cinemas in Kinarut and Kundasang will be opened soon.'
He said the investments by the cinema in Sabah, which surpassed RM100 million, shows their commitment and confidence in the state.
Armizan said he would convey the proposals by 10Star Cinemas and industry players on developing the creative industry to the State Government and relevant ministry.
He said the premiere of Impak Maksima 2 at 10Star Cinemas in Papar shows that the district has potential for the development of creative industry.
He proposed that a creative industry hub be set up in Sabah, such as at the soon-to-be-built Sabah Cultural Complex in Kinarut.
'We need a creative industry hub in Sabah and I would love for the centre to be in Papar.'
Also present was 10Star Cinemas Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Onn Norshal Hamzah.