KOTA KINABALU, Sept 25 — The spirit of togetherness between local and national parties must be nurtured at all levels, said Barisan Nasional (BN) secretary-general Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir.
Asked about BN‘s ties with local parties in Sabah, he stressed that the coalition has always been part of the state’s political process.
“So we have never seen it as a difference or division under the local factor. BN is part of the country’s entire political ecosystem, and we have been in Sabah together, not as outsiders,” he told reporters after attending the Young Leaders’ Charisma Madani (Young UiTM Lecturers and Administrators) programme at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sabah campus in Sepanggar yesterday.
Zambry noted that before the 14th General Election (GE14), BN comprised 13 parties across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.
“Although the number of component parties has since dwindled to four, it must be remembered that the current lineup includes Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS), a Sabah-based party.
“This is why we must look at the spirit of togetherness as a whole that transcends districts and states. From the aspect of local or non-local parties, I think we do not need to play with that sentiment.
“What matters most is living together in this country’s political landscape, while upholding stability and building the nation together across all regions, states and districts,” he said.
On the programme, Zambry, who is also higher education minister, said it was a fruitful session with UiTM’s young lecturers and administrators, allowing him to hear their views and concerns on higher education.
He said issues raised included campus safety, development needs and improvements in teaching methods.
Several pressing matters requiring immediate attention were also highlighted, including basic necessities.
“Alhamdulillah, tonight I have approved a RM5 million allocation for UiTM Sabah to quickly resolve priority issues.
“It will cover lecture halls and furniture, installation of air-conditioning, and the purchase of two new buses.
“We are also looking at long-term needs such as student accommodation, which will require more detailed discussions,” he added.
Also present was UiTM Sabah rector Prof Madya Rozita @ Uji Mohammed. — The Borneo Post
