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Daily Express
a day ago
- Politics
- Daily Express
Sabah Umno will collapse if I'm sidelined: Bung
Published on: Saturday, June 28, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 28, 2025 By: Malay Mail Text Size: Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin has denied stepping aside in the coming state election, saying he will defend his Lamag state seat and is aiming to become chief minister. — Bernama pic Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Umno Chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin has dismissed rumours of stepping aside in the coming state election. Speaking to Malay Mail, Bung said that not only would he defend his Lamag state assembly seat, he also had his eyes firmly set on becoming chief minister. 'How to be chief minister if I don't contest?' he said with a laugh, brushing off speculation that he was making way for his son to run in Lamag. Bung warned that any attempt to sideline him would jeopardise the party's revival in Sabah. 'If you remove me, Umno Sabah will shut down,' said the six-term Kinabatangan MP. 'I rebuilt Sabah Umno.' Bung said he restored Umno's footing in Sabah after the party's collapse in 2018, when many of its elected representatives and leaders left to join Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia. 'Before the exodus, we had around 530,000 members. It dropped to 400,000 after the 2018 crisis. Today, it's 615,000. That's what I've rebuilt in seven years,' he said. He said he had initially been reluctant to take the helm, but agreed on the condition that he would be allowed to lead without interference. 'I told the president — if I do this, you have to trust me,' he said, referring to Umno President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Bung said he had faced stiff resistance within the party, including from former Sabah Umno Chief Tun Musa Aman, now the Governor, and other factions uneasy with his ties to opposition leader Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal. Both were alleged to be involved in the failed 'Kinabalu Move' in 2023 — an attempt to unseat Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. Bung also addressed his strained relationship with his deputy, Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan, who is seen as more aligned with the GRS-led government having been appointed to the Board of Universiti Malaysia Sabah and chairman of the Sabah Oil and Gas Development Corporation. 'We've spoken. I think it's settled for now. I trust he will act in the party's interest.' Abdul Rahman has publicly criticised Bung's decisions and even invited Hajiji to a divisional event attended Ahmad Zahid — reportedly against Bung's wishes. Bung said Abdul Rahman is unlikely to be fielded as a candidate in the next state polls, noting the only possible seat for him would be Sulaman — Hajiji's stronghold since 1990. 'If he wants to contest, he can contest in Sulaman,' Bung quipped. Still, Bung acknowledged the challenge of managing internal candidate jostling. 'Everyone wants to be a candidate — especially division chiefs. But we must choose those most likely to win. Of course, not everyone will be happy,' he said when asked about his concern heading into the election. 'BN is a good party. But maybe we didn't have a leader who really understood the rakyat. I'm from the kampung. I know what the people need and I can deliver,' he said. He said rhetoric from local-based parties was limited to certain areas and did not resonate in rural constituencies, where basic needs remain unmet. 'They don't care about sentiments like local versus national politics or mining scandals,' he said. 'What they want is water supply during Raya, roads to their kebun, electricity to cook with, the internet...I know how to deliver that.' He said that during his two-year stint as works minister he had tried to solve the water supply issue by privatising water supply — a controversial idea in the state, where public utilities remain under government control. 'Sabah is one of the only states where water hasn't been privatised. I know it's not popular, but it can work,' he said. 'Yes, some will have to pay more — but we can have a tiered tariff system to be fair. 'For households using under RM30 per month – no need to pay at all. Those who use more, will pay more,' he added. After what he described as betrayal and sabotage by former allies in GRS, Bung has ruled out any pre-election cooperation with the coalition — despite Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's vision of a three-way alliance between PH, BN, and GRS. PH would be a viable partner given its urban base and its popularity in Chinese-majority areas. 'PH is a good partner. But GRS? No. There's just too much bad history,' he said. He said he is aware that BN's ability to lead in the state again depends on how many seats it can win — ideally 30 to 40 — to avoid needing GRS's support to form government and be chief minister. 'That's why we have to win big. Everyone says they have the best chance. So let's see. 'We'll cross that bridge when we get there,' he said. * 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
Daily Express
5 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Express
Gagasan Rakyat confident of seizing Tanjung Aru from Warisan
Published on: Tuesday, June 24, 2025 Published on: Tue, Jun 24, 2025 By: Iskandar Dzulkifli Text Size: KOTA KINABALU: The Tanjung Aru Division of Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) is confident that the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition will reclaim the Tanjung Aru state seat in the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election (PRN17). Division committee member, Dr. Mohd Ritchie Jay Cheng, said the confidence stems from the coalition's consistent grassroots engagement and outreach efforts in the constituency. "We are confident that we can take back the Tanjung Aru seat from Warisan in the next state election, based on our ongoing efforts to connect with and serve the people here. "The people are able to judge for themselves which party is capable of delivering real progress for Sabah, as seen through the initiatives rolled out by the GRS-led government to benefit communities at all levels," he said. He made the remarks after handing over life jackets and signal lights to registered fishermen at Kampung Sembulan Lama on Sunday (22 June). Speaking on the aid distribution, Dr. Mohd Ritchie, who also chairs the Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association, said a total of 150 units of similar aid were being distributed to fishermen in the area. Advertisement The initiative included 50 life jackets and signal lights each for fishermen in Kampung Sembulan Lama, Kampung Tanjung Aru, and Pulau Gaya. "We're concerned about the safety needs of fishermen, especially when out at sea. Life jackets and signal lights are essential for their protection," he said. He added that this was just the first phase of assistance, with plans underway to expand the programme to benefit more fishermen in the near future. The Tanjung Aru state seat is currently held by Datuk Junz Wong of Warisan, who won the seat for a second term during the 2018 state election. * 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
Borneo Post
18-06-2025
- 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
18-06-2025
- 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
16-06-2025
- 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.
