Hajiji Honouring Promises
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Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor – a man of honour – has kept his promises: the government has begun efforts to deliver sufficient and affordable electricity to the east coast. One of the efforts was the launch of the Battery Energy Storage System Lahad Datu (BESS Lahad Datu), on 12 December 2025. The BESS infrastructure - the biggest energy storage facility in Southeast Asia - will not only reduce power interruption for people in the East Coast but it will enhance grid stability, reduce dependence on diesel and support renewable energy integration.
Hajiji said that BESS and several other initiatives by Sabah Electricity are part of the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Masterplan 2040 (SERAMP 2040) which focusses on three core principles: energy security, cost affordability, and environmental sustainability. Hajiji has said that efforts are always ongoing to improve people’s livelihood and especially water and electricity for the east coast.
The GRS Government has promised that Sabah’s energy needs will be managed well. It has set up the Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS) to handle the state’s energy requirements. In 2024, ECoS has launched 15 Large-Scale Solar (LSS) bids targeting solar power plant development from 1MWac up to 15MWac. By 2026, another Large-Scale Solar Photovoltaic (LSSPV) project will be completed in Kota Marudu. Hajiji has the heart and the vision to energise Sabah. Hajiji:
- Suggested that energy storage technology should be introduced in several strategic locations to reduce power interruptions and support renewable energy integration with the main grid.
- Requested that Sabah Electricity engages with the local communities to implement various initiatives such as the Sabah Renewable Energy Electrification Roadmap (SabahRE2) to boost electricity supply to rural areas and interior.
- Promised that Sabah Electricity, ECoS and federal agencies will continue to improve the energy ecosystem in Sabah.
On 12 December 2025, at the State Legislative Assembly, during the tabling of the 2026 surplus State Budget of an expenditure of RM6.402 billion against an estimated revenue of RM6.430 billion, Hajiji has pledged special focus to three main issues: roads, water and electricity. He said that the 2026’s State Budget will improve the living standards of the people and especially the less fortunate and the Budget will also remain committed to educational and human capital development.
