PBS to ensure GRS’s success in state election – Joachim

PENAMPANG (Oct 29): Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) is committed to ensuring Gabungan Rakyat Sabah’s (GRS) victory in the constituencies it represents.

PBS acting president Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam said the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election (PRN17) could happen anytime, which is an important phase towards ensuring Sabah remains on a stable and solid political track.

“With its strength and experience, PBS is committed to defending the seven seats previously won, while also aiming to secure new or traditional PBS seats with strong machinery and support in the upcoming election,” he said.

Joachim added that PBS is confident that its existing strengths are the foundation for GRS’s success in the next PRN.

In this context, early and meticulous negotiations on seats with GRS components are essential to ensure no overlapping or vote-splitting, which could otherwise benefit opposition parties, he stressed.

He also said that GRS must strengthen its position as a defender of Sabahans’ rights by contesting as many seats as possible, limiting the influence of external parties that may not fully grasp the true aspirations of Sabah’s people.

“One priority in PRN preparation is ensuring strong and cohesive cooperation within GRS. This unity is vital to face external challenges. PBS believes that if GRS can maintain solidarity and avoid internal conflict, it’s very possible for the coalition to achieve a majority in contested seats. This outcome will not only ensure political stability but also provide a chance to address the weaknesses that have affected Sabah’s politics,” he said.

Joachim also said that PBS is steadfast in advocating for Sabahans’ rights and safeguarding the state’s interests.

“PRN 17 will be a defining moment for Sabah’s future, and with thorough preparation and effective strategy, we are on the right path to restore the stability and progress that Sabah’s people hope for.

“Sabah has faced many challenges, but PBS has remained firm, upholding principles and fighting for Sabah’s rights without compromise. Every obstacle, whether party-hopping, political pressure, or attempts to weaken unity, has been met with a strong fighting spirit.

“However, we cannot afford to be complacent. The struggle is far from over. We must work even harder to secure Sabah’s future, ensuring that our people’s rights are not neglected and that their voices continue to be heard at both state and national levels,” he said.

Earlier in his speech at the 39th PBS Annual Delegates Conference held at the Kadazandusun Cultural Association Hongkod Koisaan near here on Tuesday, Joachim also said that PBS will continue to strengthen its relationship with its coalition partners within GRS.

He said that PBS is part of GRS, a coalition of local parties led by the Chief Minister.

“GRS was established to strengthen unity among political parties in Sabah, with the primary aim of achieving political stability and economic progress for the state. PBS is committed to further strengthening relationships with GRS partners as a symbol of loyalty and dedication to building a more stable and prosperous Sabah,” he said.

He added that PBS’s involvement in the coalition not only reflects political unity but also demonstrates PBS’s sincerity in fostering close cooperation for the benefit of the people of Sabah.

“Within GRS, PBS ensures that each decision prioritises the well-being of the people of Sabah. Through this coalition, PBS is also involved in helping the government implement various initiatives under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) halatuju, such as the SMJ housing programme that provides housing assistance to the poorest and most in need. Additionally, efforts to boost investment and achieve solid economic recovery under the leadership of GRS emphasise that unity within this coalition brings tangible results,” he said.

He added that PBS believes that by continuing close cooperation within GRS, they will be able to drive Sabah towards long-term political and economic stability.

“With a spirit of transparent struggle and unwavering sincerity, PBS will continue to play its role as a party that upholds the rights of the people of Sabah. We will remain steadfast in ensuring the rights and interests of this state are always protected and in strengthening relations with the governing coalition for a brighter future,” he said.

He stated that the PBS and STAR memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in April, this year, was aimed at strengthening collaboration on critical issues close to the hearts of Sabahans.

“This partnership is essential to bolster GRS’s chances in the upcoming elections,” he said.
Joachim also said the struggle to secure one-third of parliamentary seats for Sabah and Sarawak represents a common cause between Borneo states and the federal government.

“Since the signing of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), Sabah and Sarawak were meant to hold significant representation in the Malaysian Parliament, with one-third of parliamentary seats allocated to the two states. This allocation is crucial to ensure that Sabah and Sarawak have an influential voice in matters of policy, development and autonomy rights,” he reminded.

He added that they have made numerous requests to the federal government, and under GRS, PBS has seen many demands met through negotiations between the state and federal governments.

“The availability of a formal forum where the state can formally express its claims is invaluable, allowing for organised discourse beyond informal conversations. This platform is the MA63 Committee, chaired by the Prime Minister, and the technical committee led by the Deputy Prime Minister II. We understand that it’s a challenging process, but as long as there is a proper channel for discussion, there is hope for Sabah,” he said.

He stressed that the MoU between PBS and STAR underscores the commitment of both parties to protect such rights.

“Beyond that, it acknowledges the special status of Sabah and Sarawak to balance parliamentary power and to protect the interests of the two states more effectively, especially in making national policy decisions that impact them,” he said.

He also stressed that PBS and other GRS partners must remain dedicated to keeping Sabah relevant in the national political landscape and to securing its rightful position.

“Restoring one-third of parliamentary seats is a critical step toward empowering Sabah and Sarawak and ensuring that these states are not overlooked in Malaysia’s political and developmental journey.”