The ‘Sabah First’ policy, which prioritises the state’s interests and needs, must be pursued through effective cooperation and dialogue between the federal and state governments.
Upko president Ewon Benedick and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) president Arthur Joseph Kurup said that while achieving this policy requires the collaboration of all local political parties, confrontation with the federal government is not the right approach, Bernama reported.
Both Upko, which is part of Pakatan Harapan, and PBRS, a Barisan Nasional component, have described themselves as a “bridge from Sabah to Putrajaya”, having worked consistently with federal partners to advance key state interests, particularly on matters related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
“Upko and PBRS remain committed to fostering unity among the people of Sabah, while also contributing to the broader unity of Malaysia,” they were quoted as saying in a joint statement.
Ewon and Arthur said their parties’ efforts, through their respective coalitions, have resulted in positive outcomes, whereby nine MA63-related demands have been fulfilled under the current administration, while four others were addressed by the previous federal government.
The two leaders also said that Upko and PBRS remain committed to pushing for the remaining MA63 demands and ensuring Sabah’s priorities are reflected in the 13th Malaysia Plan.
They also stressed that local aspirations must form the foundation for political negotiations in Sabah ahead of the upcoming state election.
“Local aspirations are crucial for political alliances to navigate the state election while maintaining political stability and public harmony – both essential for building a brighter future for Sabah and a stronger Malaysia,” the statement added.
