Klias state representative Lajim Ukin was today appointed Sabah PKR chief, replacing Ahmad Thamrin Mohd Jaini.

Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim said the decision was made after taking into consideration a number of factors, including the views of PKR leaders in the state.

"Various steps will be taken to strengthen the party in Sabah, including setting up an advisory council that will be represented by senior PKR leaders, including Thamrin," he told reporters after chairing a state-level PKR meeting in Kota Kinabalu today.

During the 13th general election held on May 5, 2013, Lajim defeated Isnin Aliasnih from BN by a 179-vote majority to win the Klias state seat.

Anwar hoped the government would consider inviting leaders from the opposition to discuss issues related to the peoples' welfare, including the increasing crime rate and economic issues.

- Bernama