Government spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil today reiterated that the appointment of the Sabah governor is at the discretion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, after consultation with the state’s chief minister.
Taking to X, Fahmi hit out at Muda acting president Amira Aisya Abdul Aziz’s criticisms against the government over Musa Aman’s appointment as the next Sabah governor, effective Jan 1.
“Before you (Amira) make a statement such as this which is not based on facts, you should have examined Article 1(1) of the Sabah state constitution that clearly states the duties and responsibilities in the appointment of a Sabah governor,” he said.
Fahmi, who is also communications minister, referred Amira to Chapter 1 of the Sabah constitution, which outlines matters of appointment of the Sabah governor.
Earlier today, Amira alluded to past corruption allegations against Musa while he was Sabah chief minister, claiming that the government has acted against public interest “to celebrate the corrupt”.
Musa’s appointment comes against the backdrop of Anwar’s alliance with BN and the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition in forming the federal government.
Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor – who is also fighting off corruption allegations and is reportedly seeking Anwar’s support – had nominated Musa for the governor post.
Meanwhile, Amira, who is also Puteri Wangsa assemblyperson, responded to Fahmi and doubled down on her criticisms based on Hajiji’s role in advising the Agong.
“As a cabinet member, I have three questions for you (Fahmi),” she said.
“Was this appointment discussed between the chief minister (Hajiji) and prime minister (Anwar Ibrahim)?
“What was the prime minister’s response to the chief minister’s advice, as a partner in government? Do you (Fahmi) agree to the appointment?” she asked.
Pakatan Harapan is part of Hajiji’s government in Sabah.
Meanwhile, Musa in a Facebook post thanked the king, Anwar, and Hajiji for the appointment.
“My deepest gratitude to His Majesty. Thank you to the honourable prime minister of Malaysia and the honourable chief minister of Sabah.”
Musa received his instrument of appointment from the king in Kuala Lumpur today.
He was also awarded the Seri Maharaja Mangku Negara, which carries the title “Tun”.
Musa’s four-year term as governor will end on Dec 31, 2028. – Malaysiakini