Warisan says not involved in demonstration organised by students

Borneo Post

22-06-2025

Azis
KOTA KINABALU (June 22): Parti Warisan has distanced itself from the 'Himpunan Gempur Rasuah 2.0' held in Kota Kinabalu during the weekend, stressing that the event was entirely student-led and not affiliated with any political party.
Its information chief, Datuk Azis Jamman, clarified that the peaceful demonstration was solely organised by Suara Mahasiswa Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), who had consistently emphasised that no political party should be involved in their initiative.
'Parti Warisan was not involved in any capacity, in organising the demonstration,' Azis said in a statement issued on Sunday.
'We respected the students' clear and consistent position that no political party should be involved in their event,' he added.
According to Azis, he had publicly reiterated the party's stance through an official statement on his verified Facebook page, denying any endorsement or participation by Warisan.
Nonetheless, Azis stressed the need to uphold the constitutional right to peaceful assembly for all Malaysians, including Sabah's youth and students, so long as such gatherings remain within the boundaries of the law.
'Parti Warisan had reminded all our members that they were not to wear any clothing bearing the Warisan logo if they chose to attend. They were to do so in their personal capacity, not as representatives of the party,' he explained.
To ensure compliance, Azis said he had personally dispatched officers to monitor the gathering.
'I can confirm that no Warisan symbols or party materials were displayed throughout the assembly,' he said.
On the burning of banners on the second day of the event, Azis denied any involvement by Warisan members.
'From what we understand, it was initiated by students themselves, and we trust that enforcement agencies, particularly the Special Branch, would have documented the individuals involved. Let the authorities verify the facts based on evidence,' he said.
Reiterating that the rally was organized by Gerakan Mahasiswa UMS, Azis said any Warisan members who were present attended in their individual capacity, particularly on the first day of the protest.
'It is important that we remain fair and accurate in attributing responsibility, and not politicise youth-led civil movements that express legitimate concerns about integrity and governance,' he said.
Azis also commended the students of UMS for their courage in taking a stand against corruption.
'We applaud this civic maturity. We need more independent civil society movements, such as Gerakan Mahasiswa UMS, to act as third-force validators, holding those in power accountable. Fighting corruption is not just the duty of the authorities or politicians, but a collective responsibility of all Malaysians. Everyone must play their part,' Azis said.