Labuan: The appointment of the next chairman of Labuan Corporation must be based on merit and competence rather than local sentiment, to ensure the island’s continued social and economic progress, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said. Dr Zaliha stressed that Labuan’s development requires strong leadership with a clear vision, a solid grasp of policy implementation, and the ability to drive growth for the benefit of the wider community.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zaliha emphasized that the position should not be politicized or reduced to a matter of local sentiment. “What matters is the ability to bring meaningful progress to Labuan, strengthen its economic resilience, and improve the lives of its people,” she told reporters after officiating the closing ceremony of the Borneo Flora Festival 2025.
She further noted that selecting a chairman based on capability and a proven track record is especially vital as Labuan navigates post-pandemic recovery, regional economic competition, and national development priorities. “Labuan, as a federal territory, has garnered increasing attention from both local and international investors, particularly in the logistics, oil and gas, tourism, and financial sectors,” she said.
Dr Zaliha insisted that this momentum must be sustained with leadership that is proactive and strategic. “We must appoint someone who can engage stakeholders, drive public-private collaboration, and ensure that government initiatives translate into tangible outcomes for the rakyat,” she added.
She highlighted that the Labuan Corporation chairman plays a key role in shaping policies, overseeing local government affairs, and facilitating development projects. Dr Zaliha reiterated that while local perspectives are important, they must complement, not override, the need for effective leadership grounded in merit, experience, and performance.
The post of chairman became vacant following former Kimanis MP Tan Sri Anifah Aman concluding his term last month.