Sungai manila: Gabungan Rakyat Sabah’s (GRS) candidate for the Sungai Manila state seat, Hazem Mubarak Musa, hopes to carry on his father’s legacy of driving continuous development in the constituency if given the mandate in the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election. The son of Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman said his decision to enter politics was not based solely on his family background but was driven by his commitment to contribute to the constituency’s development and safeguard the well-being of its people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hazem Mubarak Musa stated, “Of course, I want to continue my family’s legacy, but what matters more to me is playing a role in developing the community and contributing to the well-being of the people of Sungai Manila,” during a meet-and-greet programme in Sungai Manila. He emphasized that during his three years as Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah’s (Gagasan Rakyat) Sungai Manila Division chief, he and his team have frequently engaged with the community to better understand their concerns.

He expressed confidence in the groundwork laid over the past three years, highlighting their consistent efforts to engage with the community, understand their problems, and formulate effective approaches to assist the local population. He noted that the ultimate judgment lies with the people.

Hazem Mubarak also clarified that his father’s position as the Yang Dipertua Negeri should not be associated with political affairs, as the role is neutral in the state administration. He reiterated that the Yang Dipertua Negeri is not involved in politics, cannot vote, or campaign, and hence, political matters should not be linked to him.

Acknowledging his father’s past contributions, Hazem Mubarak recognized that his father’s governance as Chief Minister and former representative for Sungai Manila significantly contributed to the constituency’s development. However, he stressed that his political involvement is driven by his own determination and commitment to serve the people and address their needs.

To further support the younger generation, Hazem Mubarak expressed his commitment to assisting university graduates through job-matching programmes, aiming to reduce the unemployment rate among qualified youth.