KOTA KINABALU: State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin (pic) will take over as Sabah Umno chief, replacing Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin who passed away on Dec 5.
Jafry’s position as Sabah Umno secretary will be taken over by Kalabakan Umno division chief Samasuddin Yusop, according to a statement released by Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki.
In the top-level reshuffle, Penampang Umno chief Datuk Mohd Hasnol Ayub was made Sabah Umno deputy chairman, replacing Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Dahalan.
Asyraf said the changes were done in line with the party constitution, and the appointments were agreed to by party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
“The appointments are aimed at ensuring continuity of administration, strengthening party coordination and organising Umno’s operations in Sabah in a more structured and effective manner.
“Umno calls on all leaders and members to give their full support to the new leadership line-up to ensure Umno can continue to provide the best service to the people and uphold the state government,” added Asyraf.
Bung Moktar passed away from a brief lung and kidney-related ailment six days after retaining the Lamag seat in the Nov 29 state election.
A by-election is scheduled to be called for the Lamag state seat and Kinabatangan parliamentary seat when the Election Commission sits next week.
