KOTA KINABALU: A Sabah political leader has called on long-serving politicians to step aside and make way for emerging leaders with fresh ideas and a sincere commitment to change.
Speaking at the Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah annual conference in N26 Moyog, Deputy Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan said that Sabah needs a leadership reset, one that goes beyond age and focuses on mindset and sincerity.
“It’s not just about youth. What we need are leaders with a clear vision and genuine desire to drive change for Sabah,” said Khairul Firdaus, a direct member of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).
He pointed out that some political figures in the state have clung to power for too long, despite growing public frustration.
“There are leaders who have remained in office for years but no longer connect with the people. They should stop insulting the public by holding on to power. It is time to step aside and give others a chance,” he said.
He added that Sabah should no longer be viewed as lagging behind but as a state capable of leading in innovation and development, something that can only happen by empowering new leaders.
Khairul Firdaus commended senior politician Datuk John Ambrose as a role model, saying his willingness to support new leaders showed true leadership.
He also warned that voters in Sabah are becoming more open to political alternatives and will not hesitate to reject parties that fail to deliver.
Khairul Firdaus also stressed that Sabah’s political instability, marked by years of internal conflict, must come to an end.
He said political maturity and unity were vital for Sabah to progress and receive the recognition and development it deserves.
Highlighting the role of GRS, he described the coalition as the best platform for real change and urged voters to give it a full mandate in the next election.
“Give us one more term. If we cannot perform, then vote us out,” he said, noting that GRS chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has shown leadership by introducing new initiatives and being open to feedback.
While acknowledging that perceptions of GRS vary across Sabah, particularly among younger voters, he said the coalition remains committed to listening to and addressing grassroots concerns.
“We cannot be seen as failing to understand what Sabahans want. GRS and Gagasan Rakyat must keep their ears to the ground,” he said.
Khairul Firdaus noted that his views were personal, but he expressed hope for a more united and forward-looking leadership to break Sabah out of its longstanding political deadlock.
