Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has hit back at opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin for allegedly referring to Sabahans as “palui” (fools) during a recent event.

Hajiji described the remark as disrespectful and an insult to Sabah’s leaders and its people.

“Do not insult Sabahans or their leaders,” Hajiji said on Thursday during the Jelajah Sayangi Sabah event in Keningau.

He highlighted Sabah’s political culture of harmony and respect, contrasting it with the more combative style often seen in Peninsular Malaysia.

“If you want to bring hostility and insults, keep them in the peninsula. Don’t bring them to Sabah,” Hajiji added.

Hamzah’s remarks follow his criticism of Hajiji and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) leaders for leaving Bersatu in 2022 to establish Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah.

The opposition leader accused GRS of betraying voter trust and being opportunists while claiming to represent Sabah’s interests.

Hajiji did not respond to these accusations, choosing instead to emphasize GRS’s commitment to unity and progress for Sabahans.

“GRS is focused on uniting Sabah’s diverse communities and delivering development, not engaging in divisive politics,” he said.

A police report has been filed regarding Hamzah’s alleged remarks, though the viral video of the speech is reportedly edited, leaving his intentions unclear.

Hajiji expressed confidence in GRS’s ability to win the upcoming state election, citing the coalition’s strong track record and unity among its eight local parties.

“With our achievements and united front, I am confident we will win the next state election and continue delivering for Sabah,” Hajiji said. – January 23, 2025