Kota Kinabalu: This is not the time for any political party to play hero and fight alone in the State elections due anytime this year, said Acting Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) President Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
At the same time the ruling GRS (Gabung Rakyat Sabah) coalition must strengthen its position as a champion of Sabah’s rights by contesting as many seats as possible and prevent dominance by external parties that may not fully understand the true aspirations of the people.
There have been calls by several GRS partners, namely SAPP, Star and Usno, that GRS should contest all 73 seats up for grabs like GPS in Sarawak without sharing the cake with Pakatan Harapan or Barisan Nasional, both of which are peninsula-based.
The present GRS-led Sabah Government is a coalition with PH and BN components.
Saying today’s political landscape is vastly different, he stressed the need for a more strategic approach to ensure stability and progress for the State.
“Victory cannot be achieved single-handedly. We need allies who share our political ideologies. I believe we have found such allies in GRS,” he said at PBS’ 40th anniversary celebration at Hakka Hall in Tanjung Lipat, Wednesday night.
Dr Joachim, who is also Deputy Chief Minister II, said the formation of GRS aims to stabilise Sabah’s political climate so that the focus can be placed on strengthening the State’s economic and infrastructure development.
He said PBS is comfortable working alongside parties within GRS and had no hesitation being part of the coalition’s larger family.
“We must remain committed and continue championing GRS’ mission and vision. This coalition is not just for personal or political gain but to ensure a brighter future for all Sabahans.
“We chose to be in GRS because it offers hope and real opportunities for progress,” he said.
Dr Joachim further emphasised that GRS, as a local coalition, understands the aspirations and needs of the people of Sabah better.
“PBS will remain in the GRS Government despite attempts to divide our coalition.
“There are external forces trying to disrupt our unity, but we remain united under the banner of the GRS Government.”
He recalled that in April 2024, PBS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (StarSabah) aimed at further strengthening the GRS government.
“This memorandum is not a threat to our partners in GRS; instead, it fortifies our coalition, especially in preparing for the elections.”
With a clear stance and strong unity within GRS, PBS is confident that Sabah would continue to develop and that its people enjoy lasting stability and prosperity.
Dr Joachim said the imminent 17th State Election (PRN17) is a crucial phase in ensuring the State remains on a path of stable and solid political governance.
“PBS is determined to defend the seven seats we won and prepared to expand the party’s influence by securing more seats.
“As a party representing all ethnicities, PBS believes this diversity will be the foundation for a greater victory,” he said.
Dr Joachim said more detailed and fair negotiations, particularly regarding seat allocation among components of GRS, would take place.
“This careful planning will ensure no overlap or vote splitting which could benefit opposition parties. understand the true aspirations of the people.”
One of the key priorities is ensuring strong and solid cooperation among parties within GRS.
“In PBS, we believe GRS can maintain unity and avoid any internal conflicts which will help us win more seats. This will not only ensure political stability but also the best opportunity to rectify past weaknesses that have plagued Sabah’s politics,” he said.
He reaffirmed that as a key pillar of GRS, PBS will remain steadfast in its mission to champion the rights of Sabah’s people and safeguard the State’s interests.
“We will discuss even Melalap,” he said, referring to the seat held by KDM President Datuk Peter Anthony whose jail conviction for forgery was upheld by the Appeal Court on Wednesday.