In a statement, he claimed that some department chiefs in the civil service were imposing arbitrary conditions on potential investors.

He lamented that these actions not only contradict the responsibilities of the department heads, which is to facilitate investment, they also send “the wrong signals” to potential investors and discourage them from investing in Sabah.

“We want to create more jobs for the people, that is why we are bringing in more investors to Sabah,” Hajiji said during a swearing-in ceremony for district councillors.

Emphasising that Sabah was “investor-friendly”, the chief minister also said he was keeping a close eye on such cases and would not hesitate to take action, if necessary.

Meanwhile, he also reminded district councillors that they play a vital role in development.

Hajiji, who is the Sulaman assemblyman, cautioned councillors against being complacent and allowing development to be carried out in a haphazard manner.