KOTA KINABALU: Datuk Amir Kahar, the son of Sabah’s founding father, the late Tun Datu Mustapha Harun, has come out of retirement to re-enter politics through Sabah STAR.
Amir, who served five terms as Banggi assemblyman (1986-1994) and three terms as Marudu MP (1990-2004), submitted his membership form to party president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, witnessed by party member Datuk Jerry Ambuting Mohd Said, on Friday (Aug 8).
The 75-year-old Amir said he is back in politics as he realised that Sabah is under economic threats and drowning in corruption.
“There is corruption here and there, and this is what worries me. If not, I just want to enjoy life,” he said.
Amir, who was previously with United Sabah National Organisation (Usno), then Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Umno before going independent, said he is making this foray to do some good with the time he has left.
He said he had taken a whole year to deliberate on the decision and that rejoining politics is his way to end corruption.
“Jeffrey and I, we are not just friends but family. We have been fighting side by side from 1988 to 1994 and have never left each other.
“Those who separated us were people who disliked us. So sincerely, I am going to fight for the people of Sabah,” said Amir.
He also lamented that Sabah was the poorest state despite its rich natural resources.