Kota Kinabalu: The Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sabah, Tun Musa Aman, is set to officiate the opening of the First Meeting of the Fifth Term of the 16th State Legislative Assembly tomorrow. This marks the first time Tun Musa will preside over such an event since his appointment as the 11th Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sabah in January.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Speaker Datuk Kadzim M Yahya confirmed that extensive preparations, including rehearsals, are in place to ensure the smooth execution of the ceremony. Key elements include Tun Musa’s arrival, the salute, and the inspection of the guard of honour. “Tomorrow, there will be two main highlights. First, the opening of the state assembly sitting. Second, after the TYT (Tuan Yang Terutama) delivers his opening speech, we will proceed to the Aidilfitri event, which is expected to host about 1,500 guests,” Kadzim stated at a press conference.

The Sabah State Legislative Assembly sitting is scheduled to last four days, beginning on April 14. Four bills are on the agenda for this session, including three amendment bills on land, forest, and housing laws, along with a new bill concerning elephants.

Kadzim urged all elected representatives from Sabah to actively participate in the session, encouraging them to present constructive ideas and focus their debates on the topics highlighted in Tun Musa’s opening address. He emphasized the importance of enabling relevant ministries to address any questions raised.

“I hope that in this session, as we are still in the middle of Syawal, everyone remains calm during the debate…raise thoughtful (issues), particularly those addressed by TYT,” Kadzim remarked, urging representatives not to politicize Tun Musa’s speech or use it for electioneering purposes. This guidance applies to both backbenchers and opposition members.