Harris Salleh facts for kids

Tan Sri Dato' 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 important role lasted from June 1976 to April 1985. During his time, he made Labuan island a federal territory. Labuan used to be part of Sabah. This made Labuan the second federal territory in Malaysia. Harris Mohd Salleh also helped start a political party. It was called the Sabah People's United Front (BERJAYA).

Early Life and Political Journey

Harris bin Mohd Salleh was born in Crown Colony of Labuan. This place is now known as Labuan, Malaysia. He began his political career with the United Sabah National Organisation (USNO). Later, he helped create a new party. This party was called the Sabah People's United Front (BERJAYA). He became the first President of BERJAYA.

Becoming Chief Minister

In 1976, Harris Mohd Salleh became the Chief Minister of Sabah. This is a very important leadership role. He took over from Fuad Stephens. He served in this position for almost nine years. His time as Chief Minister ended in April 1985. Joseph Pairin Kitingan then became the next Chief Minister.

Key Decisions and Changes

During his time as Chief Minister, Harris Mohd Salleh made some big decisions. One major change was about Labuan island.

Labuan Becomes a Federal Territory

Labuan island was once part of Sabah. In 1984, Harris Mohd Salleh agreed to give Labuan to the Malaysian federal government. This made Labuan a federal territory. It became the second federal territory in Malaysia. The first one was Kuala Lumpur. This decision changed the status of Labuan.

Recognitions and Awards

Throughout his life, Harris Mohd Salleh has received many awards. These awards recognize his service to Malaysia and its states.

National and State Honours

He was given the title Tan Sri in 2010. This is a very high honour in Malaysia. He also received many other important awards. These awards came from different states in Malaysia. For example, he received honours from Johor, Kelantan, Pahang, Selangor, and Sarawak. These awards often come with special titles like Dato' or Datuk Amar.

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)