He said the issue was a common concern among many, including those within Sabah Barisan Nasional.

According to him, the matter had already been brought to the state cabinet for discussion and all agreed that the issue warrants the attention of the higher education ministry.

“I know some have become very anxious over this matter. I have already raised this issue with the minister concerned and voiced the expectation that the next UMS VC should be from Sabah.

“I believe we have qualified people from here who can do the job,” he said in a statement today.

Musa, however, urged the people to remain calm as no decision had yet been made on the appointment.

“I also ask the media, especially the social media, not to hype up the issue. I know this issue will be political fodder for the opposition but that is expected,” he said.