KUALA LUMPUR — Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) have made clear they will not cooperate with Umni or Barisan Nasional (BN) in the upcoming Sabah state election, underlining a firm stance that Sabah’s political direction must be determined by local voices.
In a joint statement issued after a meeting on August 27, both parties said their decision reflects the need to safeguard the independence and integrity of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), which they described as a coalition rooted in the aspirations of Sabahans.
The meeting, co-chaired by PBS acting president Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam and STAR president Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, also noted what they called UMNO’s “repeated hostile statements” against the GRS-led state government and its constant belittling of the coalition.
“This consistent stand reflects both parties’ commitment to safeguarding the identity and integrity of PBS, STAR, and GRS as a coalition led by Sabah-based parties,” the statement said.
The parties stressed that while they are aware of a formal arrangement between Pakatan Harapan (PH) and UMNO in facing the polls, GRS has never been part of such a collaboration. They added that maintaining trust with Sabah voters requires keeping a clear distance from political manoeuvres originating outside the state.
On seat distribution, PBS and STAR reaffirmed the GRS supreme council’s decision that the coalition should contest 55 seats, warning that any reduction could weaken grassroots confidence. Both parties also proposed that all component candidates stand under the GRS logo to ensure unity and avoid sending mixed signals to voters.
“By respecting each other’s roles, upholding shared principles, and prioritising the voices of Sabahans, GRS can move forward stronger, more united, and better positioned to serve the people of Sabah,” the statement added. - August 28, 2025
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