
Sabah parties must run Sabah: Nabawan PGRS
Published on: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Published on: Sat, Jun 28, 2025
By: Marutin Ansiung Text Size: Ghani cautioned party members against falling for malicious slander from opposition forces, describing such attacks as attempts to divide GRS component parties' unity. NABAWAN: Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) Nabawan division has thrown its full support behind party leadership's stance that local parties must remain the dominant force leading Sabah. Division Chief Datuk Abdul Ghani Mohamed Yassin said regardless of potential partnerships, all parties must agree that Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) should maintain its dominant position in governing the State. Speaking at the party's annual meeting at the youth hall Saturday, the Nabawan Assemblyman said the upcoming 17th State Election (PRN17) presents an opportunity for GRS to prove that local party coalitions mandated by Sabahans can effectively govern for continued development and prosperity. 'Progress in any area must be based on systematic planning, organised management and political stability. I urge everyone not to waste the opportunity we have for political stability in our efforts to ensure Sabah's development continues in line with Sabahan aspirations,' Ghani said. He expressed confidence that GRS, as a local party coalition, can deliver political stability while generating multiplier effects for state development and welfare without external interference. Ghani cautioned party members against falling for malicious slander from opposition forces, describing such attacks as attempts to divide GRS component parties' unity. 'We and other component parties must unite to ensure GRS remains strong and favoured by the people in this state,' he said. He urged members to continue highlighting the State Government's ongoing achievements and genuine efforts to attract public support for GRS, particularly among Nabawan communities and Sabahans generally. Reflecting on political changes since 2018 following Barisan Nasional's fall, Ghani expressed confidence that the coalition of local parties can best translate Sabahan aspirations through solid unity and togetherness to restabilise the State's political arena. Regarding PRN17, Ghani noted that everyone awaits the Sabah State Assembly dissolution announcement, urging party members to prepare machinery, close ranks, and stay ready for any challenges to secure another victory. During his nearly five-year tenure as local representative, Ghani said he has tried various approaches to ensure Nabawan's welfare and development keeps pace with changing times and current community needs. 'The struggle is not over, there is still much I need to accomplish with grassroots support so that Nabawan people's development and welfare continue to be protected, not just for us but for future generations,' he said. Ghani highlighted GRS government achievements over three years despite various challenges, including effective governance during the Covid-19 pandemic and movement restrictions starting in 2020. 'This was also my first-year challenge as people's representative, we were tested by the Covid-19 pandemic while our political temperature remained uncertain during government leadership changes. We were also tested by natural disasters, including major floods in this district that had never occurred before,' he said. Despite challenges, he noted many successes and positive changes implemented for Nabawan. The annual party meeting drew 510 representatives and was attended by GRS component party leaders from the area. * 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.
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Borneo Post
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But the Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Hj Noor, stepped in to cool things down by declaring, after a three-hour meeting of GRS leaders on May 7, that 'All is well in GRS.' The congenial smiles of the four leaders, Hajiji, Pandikar, Datuk Yong Teck Lee and Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan on the front page headline of a local paper was hilarious knowing the strained backdrop of the news story. In dealing with the constrains to manoeuvre in the local political arena, Pandikar hasn't accepted any disadvantage he may have, but has leveraged on his strength of personality, as one who has gone through years in the political combat zones. Putting forth a self-assured front, he spoke his mind against some of whom he describes as 'greenhorns' – all in the bravado well-horned since his days in Bersih, AKAR and in the hot chair of Parliament. 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Internal Coalition Dynamics: His outspokenness creates pressure within the GRS coalition. While potentially disruptive, it forces other coalition partners to acknowledge and address Sabah's concerns, giving USNO a more prominent role in discussions and decision-making processes. His willingness to push boundaries gains him attention and influence. 3. Media Attention and Public Perception: Pandikar's assertive tactics generate considerable media attention, increasing his visibility and shaping public perception. This increases his profile and strengthens his influence beyond the immediate political arena. 4. Negotiating Power: By demonstrating a willingness to push the boundaries of the coalition, Pandikar strengthens his negotiating position. He can leverage his vocal support for Sabah's autonomy to secure concessions and influence policy decisions within GRS. 5. Mobilization of Support: This assertive stance can mobilize support not only within USNO but also amongst other groups and parties sympathetic to Sabah's cause. This expands his political base and increases his bargaining power. However, it is crucial to note that this brinkmanship may carry some risks. Although his assertiveness had pushed GRS for a reconciliation, any excess may alienate coalition partners and damage his relationships within GRS. But as one who has known him since our days in AKAR, I see no possibility of him compromising on his stance where Sabah rights are concerned. It's a u-turn from his previous stance when he was Parliament chairman, but this new direction boosts Usno's influence as it resonates with the now popular 'Sabah for Sabahans' slogan. What he has achieved with his typical virulent rhetoric are leadership gems which has raised him further up in the Sabah political current, ultimately to herald the recognition that Pandikar Amin Hj Mulia is still a force to be reckoned with! It could also be perceived negatively by some voters who prefer a more conciliatory approach. The effectiveness of his strategy will depend on careful calculation and a deep understanding of Sabah's political landscape. The long-term consequences remain to be seen. Pandikar's shift from a previously pro-federal stance to a strong advocate for Sabah's greater autonomy represents a significant change in his political trajectory. This U-turn can be analyzed from several perspectives: • Political Pragmatism: Pandikar's change might be driven by political pragmatism. He may have recognized that advocating for Sabah's autonomy resonates far more strongly with the Sabah electorate than a pro-federal stance. By aligning himself with the popular sentiment of greater self-determination, he enhances his political viability and appeal within Sabah. • Evolving Political Landscape: The political landscape in Sabah has shifted significantly. The increased focus on the implementation of MA63 and the growing demand for greater autonomy have created a more receptive environment for pro-autonomy voices. Pandikar's shift might reflect an adaptation to this evolving political reality. • Internal Party Dynamics: His change could be influenced by internal dynamics within USNO and his desire to strengthen the party's position within Sabah's political arena. Embracing the autonomy agenda allows him to consolidate his position as a key leader within the party. • Strategic Calculation: Pandikar's U-turn could be a strategic calculation aimed at enhancing his negotiating power. By adopting a more assertive stance, he can exert greater influence within the GRS coalition and secure concessions from the federal government. • Response to Public Pressure: It's possible the shift is a response to mounting public pressure from Sabahans demanding greater autonomy and a more assertive representation of their interests at the federal level. Pandikar may have sensed this public sentiment and changed his political position to better reflect the views of his electorate. • Shifting Priorities: His priorities might have changed over time, leading to a reevaluation of his political stance. He may have come to view greater autonomy as essential for Sabah's long-term prosperity and well-being. However, it's important to acknowledge that Pandikar's change could also be perceived as opportunistic. The timing of his shift raises questions about his sincerity and motivations. His previous pro-federal stance could be used to criticize his current advocacy for greater autonomy, potentially undermining his credibility among some segments of the population. The long-term implications of this change will likely depend on the consistency and effectiveness of his approach. How has Pandikar's U-turn affected his relationship with other GRS leaders? What are the key issues Pandikar advocates for Sabah? What are the main reasons for the U-turn?