TAWAU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed optimism about forming a cooperation between Pakatan Harapan (PH), Barisan Nasional (BN) and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) ahead of the imminent 17th Sabah State Election.
However, the PH president said while he could speak on behalf of his coalition, further discussions on the potential alliance would depend on BN and GRS.
“I see a very positive attitude from Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and we have already engaged in talks with BN,” Anwar told reporters at Tawau Airport, Sunday.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});He added that the final decision on the nature of the collaboration would be determined through discussions between GRS and BN leaders.
Anwar said Sunday’s meeting also focused on strengthening cooperation between PH and GRS.
“I informed (Hajiji) about the initial talks between PH and BN in Kuala Lumpur regarding the state election, emphasising the need for a united front,” he said.
The Prime Minister said PH supports Hajiji’s leadership in ensuring a stable State Government that works closely with the Federal administration.
He agreed with Hajiji’s view that stronger collaboration between PH and GRS is important, especially in facing the State polls.
“However, it is ultimately up to them.
“The decision taken in Sabah will determine the direction for PH, particularly Sabah PH.
“As such, discussions between GRS and BN are best left to GRS. What matters most is that Sabah finds a stable and workable solution in its cooperation with the federal government,” he added.
Tensions between GRS and BN have lingered since 2023, when Sabah BN chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin led an unsuccessful bid to unseat Hajiji’s state administration.
Despite the fallout, several BN members who defied Bung’s move remain part of the GRS-led cabinet.