KOTA KINABALU: As the saying goes, ‘you can’t love what you don’t know’.
Although it remains uncertain whether the recently retired Secretary-General (KSU) of the Ministry of Unity, Datuk Ruji Ubi, intends to enter the political arena, many netizens are still unfamiliar with this young figure.
Born on June 18, 1970, this native of Merotai is among the public servants from Sabah who has held the highest positions in the federal public service.
He holds a Master’s degree in International Studies (Peace & Conflict Resolutions) from the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
Prior to his role as KSU of the Ministry of Unity, Ruji served as KSU of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Education.
In addition to being a KSU, Ruji has also held positions as the Director of State Development Sabah (SDO), Chief Executive Officer of ESSCOM, Deputy Chief Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, and Special Officer to Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed for nine years across various ministries.
During his time at ESSCOM, Ruji played a significant role in enhancing the assets of ESSCOM as they exist today.
While at the Ministry of Home Affairs, he successfully secured acquisitions for the ESSCOM Office and housing for ESSCOM personnel in Lahad Datu.
Ruji’s leadership as a public servant was particularly evident during his tenure at SDO.
He was involved in implementing various projects for the benefit of the people.
These included longhouse projects in Kota Marudu, and the refurbishment of dilapidated schools throughout Sabah, including in the Kalabakan constituency.
While at SDO, Ruji also successfully ‘rescued’ the troubled projects of SMK Titingan 2, SMK Kinabutan 2, and SMK Tandek 2.
His excellence in public administration continued during his time at the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Ruji was able to initiate the groundwork for the ICQS sites in Bantul, Nabawan, and ICQS Serudong in Kalabakan.
During his time at the Ministry of Home Affairs, this native of the Merotai constituency also successfully secured funding for the new Police Headquarters (IPD) in Nabawan and IPD Kalabakan, as well as opening a Branch Office of the National Registration Department in Kalabakan, Tawau.
“I used to see my boss, Datuk Ruji, at ESSCOM as a leader who was down to earth and humble towards all staff.
“He was well-liked by the ESSCOM staff and the local community, and I believe that if Datuk Ruji chooses to enter politics after retirement, he possesses the qualities of a good people’s leader,” said Newmond Tibin.
Newmond was the former Director of the ESSCOM Secretariat Division before being appointed as the Press Secretary to the Minister of Communications and Multimedia in Putrajaya.
