KOTA KINABALU: The fight for state rights should not be the reason for fallouts and splits, says Sabah PKR.
The party said while it respected Upko’s decision to leave Pakatan Harapan, it felt that the struggle to see Sabah regain its rights under the Federal Constitution should be done while being united.
“It should be a basis for unity in a mature and respectful spirit of federalism,” said Sabah PKR chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmud.
He urged all political parties including Upko to place Sabahans’ interest first and to continue working together in a broader sense under the spirit of unity and national reformation.
He also thanked Upko who has been part of the Sabah Pakatan coalition since 2019.
“During these few years together, we have forged strong bonds from all levels of supporters to the higher levels of representation,” said Mustapha.
He said this strong bond was instrumental in championing reform agendas, good management and inclusive development in Sabah.
“On these grounds, Sabah PKR would like to thank Upko president Datuk Ewon Benedick and the whole Upko leadership and members for their contribution, commitment and partnership during these few years,” he added.
Mustapha’s statement comes after Benedick announced that Upko was pulling out of the coalition due to several reasons, including their disagreement over the Federal Government’s stand on Sabah’s 40% net revenue claims.
