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Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Julita to defend Matunggong seat for PBS
Julita presents Joachim with a token of appreciation at the close of the meeting. KUDAT (June 18): Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) will represent Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in the Matunggong constituency and its acting president, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, will pledge full support for PBS Matunggong Division chief Datuk Julita Majungki to defend her seat. 'I urge everyone to work together to ensure her victory,' he said when officiating the PBS Matunggong Division annual general meeting recently. Dr Joachim called on all GRS component parties to strengthen their unity and cooperation in preparation for the upcoming Sabah State Election. He emphasised that the collaboration between PBS and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (StarSabah) is intended to reinforce — not undermine — the GRS coalition. 'To face the state election, we must unite under GRS,' he said. Dr Joachim, who is also the Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister of Local Government and Housing, said the GRS-led state government remains committed to addressing the needs of the people. He cited ongoing assistance initiatives such as the SMJ Friendly Housing Programme, the Sentuhan Kasih Rakyat (SYUKUR) scheme, the Sabah People's Insurance Scheme, education development and rural infrastructure projects as evidence of this commitment, including in Matunggong. He urged all PBS members to stay united and avoid internal conflict to ensure GRS's continued success, particularly in Matunggong. In his speech, Dr Joachim congratulated Julita and the organising chairman, division secretary Epson Kawahui, for successfully hosting the annual meeting, which drew over 1,000 attendees, including observers from GRS component parties, adding that he hopes PBS membership in Matunggong will continue to grow in strength and numbers. Julita is confident that PBS, in collaboration with GRS, will be able to retain the Matunggong seat in the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election. The PBS Secretary-General said this goal is achievable if party machinery and grassroots members remain united and prepared for any eventuality. 'The election could happen anytime within the next three to four months. If we stay united and ready, I believe we can maintain our victory. Stay strong, keep fighting,' she said in her keynote address at the 40th Matunggong Division annual general meeting. Julita stressed that PBS's mission remains relevant and firmly rooted in its founding principles, continuing to champion the rights of Sabah and its people, particularly through the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). 'Let us remember, what was once seen as a rebellious act in demanding MA63 rights has now become a core agenda for many — including those who once opposed it. The people must be wise not to be swayed by smooth talkers with a record of betrayal,' she said. She reminded members of PBS's long and impactful political journey, asserting that the party's contributions to Sabah's political awakening should not be dismissed as outdated. On the current political landscape, Julita described GRS as the best platform for Sabahans, showcasing the state's political maturity in building a local coalition independent of external political influences. She highlighted the state's improved economic performance under the GRS government, with state revenue rising from RM4.4 billion in 2021 to RM6.4 billion in 2023 — a 44 per cent increase — attributed to policies under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan. 'The SMJ Friendly Housing Programme, 'Sentuhan Kasih Rakyat' (SYUKUR), and the Sabah People's Insurance Scheme are clear examples of the government's concern for the people,' she said, adding that 80 SMJ homes have been allocated to Matunggong. Under the SYUKUR scheme, selected families receive RM300 monthly, while the Sabah People's Insurance Scheme provides accident coverage for all Sabah MyKad holders. Julita also outlined the division's progress under five development pillars introduced since the 16th state election: education, infrastructure, economy, socio-culture and inter-racial relations. Among the achievements: RM475,000 invested in student development and school assistance; three new preschools built in Kg Panikuan, Tuid and Lotong; air-conditioning installed in three school halls; two longhouse blocks completed in Kg Toporoi; 60 SMJ homes handed over and another 20 underway; over 200 village road and agricultural projects worth RM43 million; construction of 10 shop lots, a community hall, and major road upgrades; completion of the study to upgrade Matunggong to a full district, along with a town masterplan. She added that houses of worship have also been repaired or built using ADUN and state allocations, and that 281 land grants were issued in 2022. Meanwhile, the SAFODA land issue, involving 2,169.7 hectares, is being resolved with cooperation from Land Utilisation Committee and relevant agencies. 'I want to clarify that accusations claiming I sold SAFODA land are completely false. The resolution process is ongoing for the benefit of the people,' she said. Julita also expressed gratitude for Dr Joachim's attendance, noting it was a major morale boost for party members. Also present at the meeting was PBS Vice President and Youth Exco Chief Dr Christoper Mandut.
Daily Express
5 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Express
PBS-Star Sabah ties not a threat to GRS, says Joachim
Published on: Wednesday, June 18, 2025 Published on: Wed, Jun 18, 2025 Text Size: Joachim and other leaders during the meeting. MATUNGGONG: Acting PBS President Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam has called on all Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) component parties to strengthen unity ahead of the state election. Speaking at the PBS Matunggong annual general meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister clarified that close ties between PBS and Star Sabah are not a threat to GRS but serve to reinforce the coalition for a shared victory. Advertisement He said the GRS-led government has provided various forms of assistance to the people, including those in Matunggong, through housing, welfare, education, infrastructure, and agriculture initiatives. Joachim also urged PBS members to stay united and avoid internal division to ensure a GRS win in the Matunggong seat. He also reaffirmed PBS's intention to contest the seat under GRS. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
The Star
6 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Sabah Pakatan Harapan yet to finalise election strategy
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Pakatan Harapan has not yet finalised its position or strategy for the upcoming Sabah state election, as internal discussions among the coalition's component parties are still ongoing. Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe said that while frequent meetings are held between Pakatan leaders, many key decisions, including potential alliances and seat allocations, remain open for discussion. 'As of now, we have not reached any final decisions. We are still assessing the political landscape and developments on the ground,' he told reporters at a joint development agreement between Qhazanah Sabah Bhd and Bina Indah Development Sdn Bhd, and the launch of Q-SME Halal Industrial Park on Monday (June 16). Echoing Sabah Pakatan chief Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, Phoong said Sabah Pakatan will engage in talks with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), taking a cautious approach before firming up its strategy. Mustapha, who is also the Deputy Higher Education Minister and Sepanggar MP, had said earlier that Sabah Pakatan needs 'more time to reassess the situation' before deciding on electoral cooperation, particularly with GRS. He noted that statements made by Pakatan secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution and GRS secretary-general Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun suggest preliminary discussions may take place, but stressed that Sabah Pakatan's leadership would continue to evaluate matters 'day by day.' 'Two years ago, we decided that GRS is the leader of the state government. That is what we accepted two years ago. So, I think, as far as (Sabah) Pakatan is concerned, we need to look into what situation unfolds every day,' Phoong said. He noted that the Sabah political landscape is unique and constantly evolving. 'We want to ensure that any decisions we make are in the best interest of the people and reflect the values and aspirations of Pakatan,' Phoong said. He said the coalition's four main component parties in Sabah, namely DAP, PKR, Amanah, and United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko), are working closely together, holding regular dialogues and maintaining good communication. 'The unity and cohesion within Sabah Pakatan are strong. We may have different views, but we are able to sit down together and discuss them constructively. That is a positive sign,' Phoong said. He also reiterated DAP's stand to focus more on policies rather than political manoeuvring, stating that the party's long-term vision for Sabah includes economic transformation, infrastructure development, and youth employment. 'At the end of the day, the people will judge us based on what we deliver, not just who we align with.' Sabah is expected to hold its state election by the end of this year, with the term of the current GRS-led government nearing its expiry.
The Star
15-06-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Sabah PAS at a crossroads as state polls near
SANDAKAN: As Sabah gears up for its 17th state election, Sabah PAS finds itself at a political crossroads – a Perikatan Nasional component party in the Opposition at federal level, yet friendly with the ruling Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition. However, Sabah PAS commissioner Datuk Dr Aliakbar Gulasan stressed that the party's political direction remains with Perikatan. 'As of now, I feel I'm still among those who are friendly with GRS because it is part of the government, and that's based on the political history that began in 2020. "As for what will happen in the state election, if I look at the other parties, none of them have made a decision either. ALSO READ: Sabah PAS yet to finalise under which party logo to contest 'Everyone is still looking for friends, coalitions, and so on. In the context of Sabah, I think what's clear is that PAS remains within Perikatan. So any discussions are still centred on Perikatan,' he said after officiating the Karnival Keluarga Sandakan 2025 here on Saturday (June 14). Last month, PAS deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said the party aimed to contest at least six seats in Sabah, possibly under a different logo as part of a broader coalition strategy. Aliakbar, however, said no specific number of seats has been decided, and the party has yet to begin formal negotiations with any potential allies. 'For now, we are focused on strengthening our organisation within Perikatan,' he said. He also cautioned politicians against fanning regional sentiments ahead of the polls, warning that such rhetoric could threaten national unity. ALSO READ: Sabah PAS 'comfortable' with GRS, says state commissioner 'Sometimes, before elections, we act like there's a separation between the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak. If we keep stirring that, it could lead to bigger conflicts or long-term segregation,' he said. On candidates, Aliakbar said PAS intends to field credible and honest individuals with strong religious grounding and a clear understanding of the responsibility of leadership. 'If politicians don't understand the concept of sin and reward, they could fall into corruption or abuse of power,' he said. Although PAS has yet to win a seat in Sabah, the party will continue its community outreach and leave it to the public to evaluate its performance, Aliakbar said. His appointment as the first PAS-nominated assemblyman in Sabah in 2020 drew criticism from some state leaders and civil society groups, who viewed the party as too extreme for Sabah's multireligious and culturally diverse landscape. ALSO READ: Sabah PAS invites non-Muslims to join as associate members While concerns were raised about the potential impact on social harmony, PAS leaders sought to downplay the backlash, stressing that their priority in Sabah was service and inclusivity. Despite the early controversy, Aliakbar has remained the party's sole nominated assemblyman and continues to openly support the GRS-led state government. PAS became part of the Sabah government following the 2020 state election, when Perikatan aligned with GRS and Barisan Nasional to form the state administration after defeating Parti Warisan. In 2022, following the 15th General Election, Perikatan became the federal Opposition. Its position in Sabah also shifted after Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and several state leaders left Bersatu.
Borneo Post
04-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
PBS stands firm on Sabah autonomy, defends track record
Joniston KOTA KINABALU (June 4): Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) remain committed to the principle that Sabah should be governed by parties rooted in the state and guided by local priorities, free from external influence, said PBS and GRS information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai. 'PBS has always remained consistent in this belief. Our political journey has been anchored on the conviction that Sabah should be led by its own — leadership grounded in local identity, accountability and a commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of our people,' he said. Responding to criticism from Libaran member of parliament and Sabah Umno information chief Datuk Suhaimi Nasir, Joniston acknowledged PBS's imperfect history but emphasised the party has never strayed from its founding mission. 'From the beginning, we have consistently championed state autonomy, fair treatment within the Federation, and the safeguarding of Sabah's voice and future,' he said. He also accused some of revisiting PBS's past for political convenience, ignoring the intentions behind the party's decisions. 'Many of the positions we took — once criticised as out of step — are now being echoed and championed by those who previously opposed them,' he added. Joniston stressed that PBS's history of political alliances and realignments reflects a consistent pursuit of Sabah's best interests. 'Our decision to leave Barisan Nasional (BN) came after deep reflection on whether that alliance still aligned with Sabah's aspirations. Every political decision we make is anchored on one question: Is this good for Sabah?' he said. He explained that PBS joined GRS with a clear sense of purpose, aligning with local parties that understand and prioritise Sabah's needs. 'GRS embodies the same values PBS has long upheld. Together, we are confident of achieving meaningful development for the state,' he said. Addressing Suhaimi's criticism labelling him as 'kebudak-budakan' (childish), Joniston replied, 'PBS's relevance is not defined by past affiliations but by how we serve, how we consistently defend Sabah's rights, and our commitment to a stronger future.' He pointed to tangible progress under the GRS-led State Government in collaboration with the federal administration, including a major increase in the federal special annual grant from just over RM50 million to RM600 million. He also highlighted the signing of a Commercial Collaborative Agreement (CCA) between the State Government and Petronas, allowing local companies to play a significant role in Sabah's oil and gas sector. This move helped boost state revenue to RM6.9 billion last year. 'With GRS at the helm, we can already see the light at the end of the tunnel,' Joniston concluded.
