The aspiration for Sabah to be led by local parties has already been realised under Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), says the coalition’s information chief Joniston Bangkuai.
Speaking at a handover ceremony of ICT equipment to Catholic churches in Mantob, Kiulu, Joniston said GRS remains the best platform to govern the state and unite its people.
“The people have long wanted to see local parties taking charge of Sabah’s direction and that is now a reality under GRS,” he said.
Joniston, who is also Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) information chief and Kiulu assemblyman, said growing public sentiment shows Sabahans support strong, united local parties.
He noted that Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) backing of chief minister Hajiji Noor reflected recognition of this preference.
“This is different from Warisan and PKDM, which backed Umno to take charge of the state government. That’s the clear difference,” he said in reference to the failed attempt to oust the Hajiji-led state government in January 2023.
Joniston added that GRS remains relevant as a coalition that emphasises constructive partnership and mutual respect among its component parties, allowing for better coordination on issues such as rural development, infrastructure and economic opportunities.
His remarks come after Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) and the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) quit GRS following disagreement with the coalition’s decision to partner with PH in the coming state election.
GRS said the July pact with PH must be honoured.
SAPP’s Supreme Council reportedly endorsed its departure, citing the belief that the Sabah state government should be led by local parties.
STAR president Jeffrey Kitingan previously insisted that GRS should go solo in the state election rather than continue its pact with Pakatan Harapan, stating that this was what Sabahans wanted.
