KOTA KINABALU, Jan. 23 -- Qualified Sabahans must secure more high-ranking positions within the federal civil service, including roles based in Putrajaya, said the chief minister.

Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said Sabahans must be more open and prepared to accept placements outside the state, including in Peninsular Malaysia, to ensure more balanced representation in the federal administration.

"Qualified Sabahans should move past the stigma of being reluctant to serve outside their home state. Many vacancies in the federal civil service offered by the Public Service Commission (SPA) were applied for by Sabahans.

"When offered positions, including high-ranking roles, even if the placement is in the Peninsula, they should accept them...