KOTA KINABALU: A total of 17 assistant ministers were sworn in on Tuesday (Dec 2), completing the formation of the new Sabah state government led by Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).
Among them were Kiulu assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai (GRS), Pitas assemblyman Datuk Seri Dr Ruddy Awah (GRS), Klias assemblyman Datuk Isnin Aliasnih (GRS), Datuk Samad Jambri @Jamri (GRS), and Kuala Penyu assemblyman Datuk Limus Jury (GRS).
Others from GRS were Lumadan assemblyman Datuk Ruslan Muharam, Tandek assemblyman Datuk Hendrus Anding, Telupid assemblyman Datuk Jonnybone Kurum, Limbahau assemblyman Datuk Juil Nuatim, Tanjong Kapor Datuk Ben Chong, Datuk Caesar Mandela Malakun and Tanjong Batu assemblyman Dr Andi Md Shamsureezal Mohd Saina.
A total of four independents were appointed as state assistant ministers - Pintasan assemblyman Datuk Fairuz Renddan, Kukusan assemblyman Datuk Rina Jainal, Bandau assemblyman Datuk Dr Maijol Mahap and Tulid assemblyman Jordan Jude Ellron.
The sole Sabah STAR leader appointed as state assistant minister was Bingkor assemblyman Datuk Mohd Ishak Ayub.
Sabah Governor Tun Musa Aman swore them in at his official residence in Istana Seri Kinabalu.
The only independent who was not appointed as a state assistant minister is Petagas assemblyman Datuk Awang Ahmad Sah Sahari.
The Sabah Chief Minister’s Office has yet to announce the respective portfolios of the appointed state assistant ministers.
The swearing-in ceremony, initially scheduled for 10am on Tuesday (Dec 2), was believed to be moved to 3.30pm later that afternoon.
Earlier Tuesday (Dec 2), Sabah STAR President Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan said the party would remain in the Opposition despite the appointment of its Bingkor assemblyman as an assistant minister.
“The appointment of Mohd Ishak as assistant minister is a direct appointment by the Chief Minister,” he said.
“It is not a party-negotiated position. He is the elected representative for Bingkor, and we respect his prerogative in accepting the role,” he added.
The state government consists of GRS’ 29, Upko (three), Barisan (six) and five independents who are reportedly supporting the ruling coalition.
