Dr Joachim proposes PBS Leadership Academy to nurture future leaders, rebranding for wider appeal

KOTA KINABALU (March 6): Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) should establish a leadership academy, said acting president Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

He suggested establishing the PBS Leadership Academy in different party zones to nurture future leaders and attract more youth, particularly students from institutions of higher learning.

“We need new leaders, but we also need our experienced leaders to continue thinking together on how we can make PBS great again,” he said during PBS’ 41st anniversary celebration on Thursday.

Dr Joachim also called on party leaders to consider rebranding efforts to ensure PBS remains appealing to younger generations and the wider electorate.

He said collaborating with like-minded parties remains important but stressed that cooperation must be consistent and sincere.

“If we look back, we have previously worked together with Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STARSabah). In my view, such cooperation is still relevant. However, we hope there will not be situations where, when elections draw near, some choose at the eleventh hour to go their separate ways or contest as independents.

“If we want to struggle together, we must do so from the beginning and finish together at the finish line. We cannot say one thing today and move in a different direction tomorrow,” he said.

He noted that Sabah’s political environment has improved compared to the past, particularly under the current state government led by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

The Deputy Chief Minister stressed PBS remains committed to working with the government to ensure the state continues progressing in line with the Sabah Maju Jaya development agenda.

“Our message to the people is that PBS must remain relevant as a party that works together to lead the future of our state and the future of our children and grandchildren. There is still much room for development, and we want Sabah to progress in line with other developed states in Malaysia,” he said.

He also called on the party to continue strengthening unity and remaining relevant in the state’s political landscape.

“We have now surpassed our 41st year. Throughout this period, we have gone through many challenges and trials. Yet until today, we continue to stand firm as a party that remains relevant in the political landscape of Sabah,” he said.

Dr Joachim expressed appreciation to the pioneers who helped establish the party, saying their sacrifices and dedication have enabled PBS to remain active and influential today.

“The formula has already been established, and we are simply continuing the programmes and the struggle of PBS, which is still not finished,” he said.

He added the party’s fight for Sabah’s rights and development remains ongoing, particularly in matters related to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), infrastructure development, and social welfare.

“Our struggle includes continuing discussions and demands regarding MA63, which remains highly relevant. What we are asking for does not go beyond the Federal Constitution. Everything we seek is within it,” he stressed.

He said PBS will hold internal party elections this year at all levels, beginning from the grassroots to the top leadership.

He urged members to elect capable leaders able to carry forward the party’s struggle.

“We will compete as a family. Those who offer themselves to become leaders, whether at the grassroots, branch, division, or central level, must remember that our objective is to continue the struggle and strengthen the party,” he said.

Branch-level elections have already begun, while divisional elections are expected to be completed by June.

The party is aiming to hold its annual delegates conference in September.

Dr Joachim also stressed that divisions must ensure their membership numbers comply with the party constitution to avoid issues with the Registrar of Societies Malaysia.

“Any division that does not have sufficient membership according to the constitution may not be granted delegate status, although they can still attend as observers.

“We must take this matter seriously because complaints about insufficient membership could create problems,” he said, adding that the party’s secretary-general has been instructed to be strict on membership matters.