21-07-2025
Both Warisan, KDM conspired with Umno: GRS
Published on: Monday, July 21, 2025
Published on: Mon, Jul 21, 2025 Text Size: KIULU: Assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said the united approach under Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) has proven effective in governing the state in an inclusive, stable, and development-focused manner. 'The GRS government is now moving forward much like Sarawak's GPS government, which is formed by local parties representing all communities. This is the best model for Sabah.
Advertisement 'If we look at Sarawak, the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) holds a clear majority but still chooses to work together with other parties to jointly develop Sarawak's socio-economy — not go it alone,' he said. Joniston, who is also the Information Chief for both GRS and Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), said this during the Papawantai Taasok Ceremony and Community Leaders' Gathering with the People of Mukim Lembah, Saturday. Commenting on the recent announcements by Warisan and Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (PKDM) to contest solo, Joniston described it as a political tactic that reflects a direction inconsistent with the aspirations of the people of Sabah. 'We do not deny any party's right to contest on its own, but ultimately, the people will judge by the outcomes — and stability can only be achieved when local parties choose collaboration over competition. 'If they are truly advocating for mature politics, that must be accompanied by a willingness to cooperate and compromise... not by acting alone and disregarding collective strength,' he said. Joniston also reminded the public that Warisan and PKDM had previously colluded with Umno in an attempt to overthrow the government led by Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor — a move he said clearly prioritized personal political interests over state stability. 'Such actions do not reflect leadership that puts the people first. Instead, they undermine public confidence and disrupt focus on development efforts,' he said. Joniston said the GRS administration under Hajiji's leadership has proven that a coalition of local parties can function effectively, achieving significant milestones such as boosting the state's financial reserves and implementing various welfare initiatives. In the Kiulu constituency, he said rural development continues to advance under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development blueprint, including agricultural road upgrades to improve access to farms and remote villages. 'We acknowledge there is still a lot of work to be done, and we do not deny the existence of challenges such as water, electricity, and infrastructure. But we take full responsibility and will keep moving forward,' he stated. He urged the people to continue supporting leadership that has delivered results, and not to be swayed by political decisions made in the interest of certain parties that could jeopardize the state's stability. * 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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