Sarawak’s PBM gaining recognition in Sabah

KOTA KINABALU (July 12): The presence of Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM) in Sabah could benefit the people of Sabah.

PBM Sabah deputy chairman Shafiq @ Joseph Peter Tinggi believes that PBM can indirectly function as a check and balance on the governance in Sabah.

“If PBM secures seats in the upcoming state election, it can directly share the secrets of Sarawak’s successful administration to be applied in Sabah,” he said in rebutting Gagasan Rakyat Sabah vice president Datuk Masiung Banah’s recent statement that the Sarawak party’s intention to contest in Sabah could affect the relationship between Sabah and Sarawak, which together form the Borneo bloc in the Unity Government.

“The views of certain individuals who claim that Sabah does not need external parties are personal opinions, as parties from outside Sabah have already entered the state long before. In fact, parties from Malaya have established themselves in Sabah for a much longer period,” Shafiq reminded.

“Even Sabah-based parties have contested in Malaya/West Malaysia. Therefore, it seems inaccurate to raise the issue of ‘external parties’ when a new party seeks to explore its market in Sabah, especially a party originating from the Borneo Block, namely Sarawak, which has proven to manage its state affairs excellently and can serve as a model,” Shafiq said.

On the contrary, he believed the presence of PBM in Sabah could benefit the people of Sabah.

“We are all aware that there are already parties from Sarawak in Sabah. However, their president is from Sabah, making the difference less noticeable compared to the local parties in Sabah. Therefore, what harm is there in trying a party whose president is directly from Sarawak?”

Shafiq added that the success of the Kaamatan Festival programme in Bandau, Kota Marudu and Tulid, Pensiangan recently speaks for itself, indicating that PBM is not only poised to be accepted but has already been embraced by the people of Sabah.

“PBM Sabah will compete healthily in the state election. Winning or losing is not the measure. The vision and mission of PBM Sabah are to test the extent of the acceptance of the people of Sabah towards the party while incorporating Sarawakian ideas and perspectives on governance to address the issues of progress for the people of Sabah. If they win, that’s a bonus. PBM will work hard to find answers to the challenges faced,” he said.

Shafiq also informed that PBM is not worried about anyone because it has no allies.

“PBM operates solo independently without disturbing friends in the next room.”

He then urged all PBM Sabah fighters to stay focused on their journey towards the Sabah State election.