Sabah coalition draws fresh interest despite USNO exit

NEW political realignments appear to be taking shape in Sabah, with multiple parties seeking entry into Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) following the recent withdrawal of the United Sabah National Organisation (USNO).

GRS secretary-general Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said the development reflects the inherently dynamic and evolving nature of politics in the state.

"I think people will come and go but for now there are already new applications from other political parties.

"But let the GRS chairman (Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor) announce it at the appropriate time," he told reporters after attending a gala dinner organised by the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah branch here today.

Masidi, who is also Sabah’s Deputy Chief Minister II and Finance Minister, described USNO’s decision to leave the coalition as part of the unpredictable realities of political life.

"What it means is that politics is very fluid and dynamic. Sometimes we cannot predict what will happen the next day.

“So, although I had hoped they would remain with us, we still respect their decision to leave GRS. I think we part as friends and not as enemies, that is the most important thing," he said.

Meanwhile, GRS information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, who was also present, said he respected USNO’s decision and viewed it as a normal occurrence in politics.

"We also understand the reasons given, that they are no longer compatible. For us in GRS, we will continue to focus on efforts to unite all parties and communities in Sabah. We will not lose focus," he said.

On Wednesday, USNO president Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia confirmed that his party had exited GRS following a meeting with Hajiji. - April 26, 2026