THANK YOU, SUBANG JAYA — EVERY STEP STARTED HERE

As the new year dawns, moments of transition invite both reflection and resolve. January 2026 marks such a moment for Hannah Yeoh, who steps into her role as Federal Territories Minister midway through the government’s term, with little time to ease into the responsibilities that lie ahead. In this deeply personal reflection written exclusively for SJ Echo, Hannah shares her gratitude, her sense of urgency, and the values that continue to guide her public service. From her formative years and political grounding in Subang Jaya to her national responsibilities today, this piece traces a journey shaped by community, diversity, and an unwavering commitment to service. It is a story of roots, responsibility and resolve — told with humility, honesty and heart.

Thank you, SJ Echo, for inviting me to pen a few words to start off January 2026. As we enter the New Year, I am filled with gratitude, excitement and slight anxiety about the daunting tasks ahead of me as the new Federal Territories Minister. For a start, I do not have the usual tenure or runway set aside for new ministers as this reshuffle happened mid-term. As such, I have to hit the ground running, running fast yet careful.

In carrying out this mandate, I am committed to leading the Federal Territories with transparency, responsibility and a clear understanding of the realities faced by our communities. My focus will be on strengthening the quality and reliability of public services, promoting sustainable development, safeguarding green and recreational spaces and enhancing flood mitigation efforts. This is a heavy responsibility, and I will uphold it with integrity, discipline and resolve, in line with the MADANI Government’s aspirations and the people’s expectations for a public service that is efficient, inclusive and effective.

Some political opponents have raised their concerns about my race. Race or skin colour has never defined or limited my work. Since 2008, whether as the State Assemblyman for Subang Jaya, Speaker of the Selangor State Legislative Assembly, Member of Parliament for Segambut, Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development or Minister of Youth and Sports, my focus has always been on policy, delivery and results. My mind and my heart have always been fully committed to serving the people. I will let my track record speak for itself.

My 10 years spent as State Assemblyman of Subang Jaya have truly equipped me for the multiple roles assigned to me over the last 18 years in public service. Subang Jaya, my hometown has taught me how to mingle and do life with people of different races, faiths and financial status.

I have served the rich, the middle class and B40 communities. Every interaction has taught me their feelings, their fears and their aspirations. From ss15 to Sunway, from Sunway to USJ and Taipan, every section has their own landmarks and features. Community leaders served selflessly, endless JKP meetings and events to connect with the local residents. Different issues brought me to MBSJ, Petaling Land Office and various local police stations.

As a child, I have taken pony rides in Taman Subang Ria, played tennis and badminton at what was known as the Valley Country and Recreational Club and ate at the nearby KFC beside the Federal Highway, swam at Lake View Club, caught tiger fishes in the stream in USJ 3 before its development, walked alongside the monsoon drains of ss14/ss18 multiple times going and returning from school. Each location has given me fond memories. Every issue given to me has truly equipped me to pursue resolutions, some can be solved instantly, some had to be tweaked and some just have to be managed with tolerance, co-exist with patience and understanding.

This humble hometown of mine will forever be a special place to raise new young leaders for the nation and sending them into the marketplace, spearheading changes and making a difference in the respective fields.

From Subang Jaya to Segambut, from state of Selangor to the Federal Territories I will keep my feet planted on the ground, walk humbly before God and the people and ensure my hands remain clean in discharging my duties.

Thank you Subang Jaya. You have raised me well. I hope I have made you proud. Pray for my success as they are yours too.

Your neighbourhood girl,

Hannah Yeoh

Editor’s Note: Do you feel moved by this article from Hannah? Write to her at hannah@hannahyeoh.com

More photos here https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GtmcCESYy/