Harris Salleh facts for kids

Tan Sri Dato' Sri Harris bin Mohd Salleh was born on November 4, 1930. He is a Malaysian politician. He served as the 6th Chief Minister of Sabah. This is like being the head of the state government. He held this important role from June 1976 to April 1985.

During his time as Chief Minister, he made a big decision. He agreed to give the island of Labuan to the Malaysian federal government. Labuan used to be part of Sabah. By becoming a federal territory, Labuan became directly managed by the central government. It was the second place in Malaysia to become a federal territory. Harris Mohd Salleh also helped start a political party called the Sabah People's United Front (BERJAYA). He was its first president.

Early Life and Political Journey

Harris Mohd Salleh was born in what was then called the Crown Colony of Labuan. This area is now known simply as Labuan, Malaysia. He grew up and became interested in helping his community. This led him into politics.

Before becoming Chief Minister, he was involved in another political party. This party was called the USNO. Later, in 1975, he helped create the BERJAYA party. This new party aimed to bring changes and improvements to Sabah.

Becoming Chief Minister

Harris Mohd Salleh became the Chief Minister of Sabah in June 1976. This happened after the previous Chief Minister, Fuad Stephens, passed away. Harris Mohd Salleh took on the leadership role during a challenging time. He worked to guide Sabah's government.

His time as Chief Minister lasted for almost nine years. He focused on developing the state. He worked on projects that aimed to improve the lives of people in Sabah.

Key Decisions and Legacy

One of the most notable decisions during his leadership was about Labuan. Labuan is an island off the coast of Sabah. In 1984, it officially became a federal territory. This meant it was no longer part of Sabah. Instead, it was governed directly by the Malaysian federal government. This decision was made to help develop Labuan as a financial and business center.

Harris Mohd Salleh's leadership saw many changes in Sabah. He worked to improve the economy and public services. He left office in April 1985. Joseph Pairin Kitingan then became the next Chief Minister.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Harris Mohd Salleh received many awards. These awards recognized his service to Malaysia and its states. Some of the important titles he received include:

• Tan Sri from the Malaysian government. This is a high honor.
• Dato' Sri from the state of Pahang.
• Dato' Seri from the state of Selangor.
• Datuk Amar from the state of Sarawak.
• Dato' from the states of Johor and Kelantan.

These titles show the respect he earned for his contributions.

Images for kids

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  Commander of the Order of the Defender of the Realm (PMN)

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  Grand Commander of the Order of Kinabalu (SPDK)

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  Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Crown of Johor (SPMJ)

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  Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Life of the Crown of Kelantan (SJMK)

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  Grand Knight of the Order of Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang (SSAP)

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  Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Crown of Selangor (SPMS)

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  Knight Commander of the Order of the Star of Hornbill Sarawak (DA)