Latest news with #Pairin
Focus Malaysia
13-07-2025
- Politics
- Focus Malaysia
Pairin urges Sabahans to ‘stand up' and back local parties over national coalitions
FORMER Sabah chief minister Joseph Pairin Kitingan, 84, has urged Sabahans to support local parties over national-based parties in the upcoming state election. Speaking candidly to the media at the PBS-Sabah Star convention, Pairin warned Sabahans not to lose control of their home and urged youth to 'wake up' and stand up for the state's future. His message comes as the ruling Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition considers contesting solo without federal partners. 'The most important thing Sabahans must decide for this (upcoming) election is to ensure we have a government based on local parties,' said Pairin, whose face showed clear signs of frustration. 'Not parties from Malaya (national-based parties),' he added. Pairin, once a symbol of Sabah's political autonomy, expressed frustration that Sabah has been sidelined in decision-making and urged voters not to let others decide their destiny. In 1985, just a week after founding PBS, Pairin led the party to a shock victory over the ruling Berjaya government, marking a historic moment for Kadazandusun leadership and Sabah's political autonomy. However, after nearly a decade in power, PBS lost control in 1994 following the defection of several assemblypersons to BN. Addressing Sabah's youths, he said, 'Wake up. This is your home. Do not just let others decide your future while you stay quiet. Stand up for Sabah.' —July 13, 2025 Main image: Alchetron
The Star
13-07-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Sabah polls: Youths urged to 'wake up' and take charge of their future
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah's younger generation must wake up and fight for their future before it is too late, says veteran politician Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan. Speaking at the joint Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS)-Sabah STAR Convention at the Hongkod Koisaan in Penampang on Saturday (July 12), he warned that Sabah is still being dictated to by national parties. As such, he said, it was for the people, especially youths, to reclaim the state's autonomous rights under the Federation. 'This is your home, your state. Don't just let others govern you and decide your future. You must stand up and save Sabah,' said the 84-year-old former chief minister and founder of PBS, which toppled the ruling Parti Berjaya in 1985. ALSO READ: Sabah polls: GRS faces tough fight to stay in power, say analysts His comments came after some 7,000 people at the convention chanted 'Solo!' in unison, calling for Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) to contest the next state election on its own, without help from national parties. The chant, which echoed through the Hongkod Koisaan hall in Penampang, sent a message that Sabahans are ready for local parties to lead the state on their own terms. Pairin, now PBS' premier adviser, did not directly say if GRS should go solo, but he made his position on local-led leadership crystal clear. Parti Bersatu Sabah founder Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan (right) shakes hands with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor after the PBS–Sabah STAR Convention at the Hongkod Koisaan in Penampang on Saturday (July 12). Asked if he wants Sabah to be governed by strong local parties like neighbouring Sarawak, he replied: 'Well, you know the conclusion. You make a comparison, of course, it is like Sarawak. But come on, they (national-based parties) are playing with us. 'We should not be controlled by national-based parties. Just look at Sarawak, they are running the show themselves,' said Pairin, who is also Huguan Siou (paramount leader) of the KadazanDusun Murut. ALSO READ: PBS, Sabah STAR grassroots call for GRS to go solo in upcoming Sabah polls He also criticised the delay in implementing the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), saying that Sabah is still begging for what was promised decades ago. 'We are kneeling on the ground asking them to return our rights. Is that what you want to keep doing? No, of course not. We should be back on our own feet. Wake up!" he stressed. He urged young Sabahans, especially first-time voters, to take their role seriously in shaping the future of the state. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor giving the thumbs up to Parti Bersatu Sabah founder Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan (right) and other leaders before leaving after launching the closing the PBS–Sabah STAR Convention at the Hongkod Koisaan in Penampang on Saturday (July 12). 'They must remember, this is their home. Their fight is for Sabah's future. Do not just allow others to govern you and hold back your rights,' he said. Although GRS has not made a formal decision on whether to go it alone in the coming state election, a growing chorus of voices is urging it to take charge of its political direction. 'Let them (GRS leaders) work together. But the goal must be to save Sabah,' Pairin added. Chief Minister and GRS chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor acknowledged the sentiment but said any decision will be made collectively through the GRS supreme council. ALSO READ: Sabah state assembly's done for the current term, says Hajiji as polls loom He stressed that while the Chief Minister has the prerogative to advise on dissolving the assembly, consensus among all coalition partners is crucial. While Hajiji avoided committing to the 'go solo' call, both Sabah STAR president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan and PBS acting president Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam openly supported it. Kitingan favoured minimal seats for electoral partners outside the coalition, while Gunsalam insisted GRS must remain the dominant faction. Hajiji stated previously that he prefers to maintain ties with Sabah Pakatan Harapan but is not open to working with Sabah Barisan Nasional.
Daily Express
07-07-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Sabah never a priority for peninsula-based coalitions: Pairin
Published on: Monday, July 07, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jul 07, 2025 By: Hayati Dzulkifli Text Size: Pairin responding to reporters at the event while johnny (left) and others look on. PAPAR: The Sabah Government must be led by local-based parties to ensure true progress for the State and people, rather than political coalitions dominated by Peninsular Malaysian parties. Former Chief Minister and Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Premier Advisor Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan said it is crucial for local leadership to govern Sabah so as to safeguard the state's interests and drive development tailored to State's unique needs. Advertisement 'It's very simple. If the dominant party (governing the State Government) comes from Semenanjung (Peninsular Malaysia), they are not really thinking about our development here. 'They have always been focusing more on their wilayah (regions). To be fair, this is Malaysia,' he said, after opening PBS Limbahau's 40th Annual General Meeting at the multipurpose hall of Mositun Kg Sungkadon-Novoung, Sunday. Also present were PBS Limbahau divisional head Datuk Johnny Mositun, PBS senior leaders Datuk Seri Radin Malleh and Datuk Edward Yong, former Buang Sayang assemblyman Datuk Claudius Sundang Alex, and divisional heads. Barisan Nasional (BN) — led by Umno in Sabah — governed the state for about 24 years continuously from 1994 to 2018 until defeated by Warisan in the 2018 general election. Pairin, who is also Huguan Siou or paramount leader of the Kadazandusun Murut (KDM) community, was asked to explain his call to the delegates here on the importance of making sure local parties become the backbone of the State government. Based on his political knowledge and experience as well as holding various ministerial portfolios during the then governance by BN in Sabah for almost three decades, he said key issues under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) remain unresolved even after more than six decades since the formation of Malaysia. 'It's (claiming for Sabah rights and interests under MA63) still on the negotiating table. That cannot be — we're supposed to be over 60 years already, and yet we are still suffering,' he said. Pairin urged Sabahans to ensure local parties get the mandate to form the State Government. 'That must be the focus because the thinking and heart of local parties of Sabahan leaders lies sympathetically with the state and its people,' he said. Asked whether his stance aligned with the slogan 'Sabah for Sabahans,' Pairin replied, 'Yes, that is the reminder.' Earlier, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Deputy-Secretary General Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali expressed the same sentiment. To a question, Pairin said PBS is ready to defend the Limbahau State seat in the coming State poll; besides other constituencies. He said PBS has long championed Limbahau and that it was only fitting for the party to contest the seat again. 'Our PBS Limbahau divisional head (Datuk Johnny Mositun) has been fighting for such a long time, non-stop. I think it should be considered. This is not over yet; it's still ongoing. 'As for other constituencies, everyone has their own opinion. We will deliver it to the party leadership to be discussed and considered,' he said. Pairin also called on Sabah youths who have turned 18 and automatically become voters to cast their votes as they are leaders who will inherit and shape Sabah's future and the nation. 'It is very important for leaders in political parties to ensure that the younger generation realize that they have the responsibility. 'The responsibility is to realise that this is their country, this is their state, this is their home, and this is where they expect to work and have families – where their future lies. Meanwhile, PBS Acting President Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said co-operation with peninsula-based parties is important, but priority must be given to political stability and leadership at the state level. He added that such collaboration should only exist when local parties (GRS) are at the helm of Sabah. 'Sabah is our homeland. We understand it better and are in a stronger position to resolve issues in a more inclusive and comprehensive manner,' he stressed. He also reminded PBS members that they are the backbone of the party and urged the entire party machinery to rise and champion PBS's aspirations throughout the state. 'We must work hard for the party and support each other to achieve success,' 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
03-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Beware AI misinformation: Pairin
Published on: Monday, June 02, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jun 02, 2025 By: Crystal E Hermenegildus Text Size: Pairin (center) with Tun Musa (fourth from left), Hajiji (third from left), and others performing the mongomot (rice harvesting) ceremony as a symbolic gesture to mark the closing of the 2025 State-Level Kaamatan Festival at Hongkod Koisaan KDCA, here on Saturday. Kota Kinabalu: Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) President Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan called for stronger unity among Malaysians while urging caution over the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Pairin expressed concern over the rapid advancement of technology, particularly AI, warning that the public must remain vigilant against the uncritical acceptance of AI-generated content and misinformation. 'AI can mislead us from what is true and right,' he said. 'We must be cautious so that we don't go astray.' He referenced a viral AI-generated video that falsely depicted Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong-un dancing together, as an example of how easily false narratives can be created and spread. He said while technology offers opportunities, it must not overshadow or distort reality, especially when it comes to preserving the culture and values of the community. He said the Kaamatan Festival is more than a cultural celebration — a vital platform to promote national unity, friendship, and collective progress. On the final day of the month-long Kaamatan Festival 2025, Pairin said, 'Celebrations like this are a powerful platform to inspire our hopes that we, as Malaysians in Sabah, can truly unite and work together.' He praised the spirit of cooperation shown by the people of Sabah and acknowledged the presence of delegates from Kalimantan and Sarawak, highlighting the cross-border ties that enrich the festival. He also thanked local leaders and ministers who played key roles in ensuring the festival's success. Reflecting on the overall success of this year's event, Pairin expressed pride in the participation of Sabah's youth and students, who showcased confidence in performing and preserving their heritage. 'This year, we've seen real improvement in performances, audience engagement and the involvement of schools in cultural education,' he noted. 'This is the result of consistent collaboration and passion.' Pairin encouraged Malaysians to carry forward the festival's spirit of unity and mutual respect. 'The strength of our friendship and the encouragement to move forward together —this is what will ensure our shared future,' he concluded. The Kaamatan Festival, celebrated annually in Sabah throughout May, marks the end of the rice harvest and showcases the rich cultural traditions of the Kadazandusun community. It has become a unifying event not just for Sabahans, but for Malaysians and international visitors alike. The closing was officiated by Head of State, Tun Musa Aman, who was joined by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor in performing the mongomot (rice harvesting) ritual. This was followed by striking the gong seven times, symbolically marking the end of the 2025 State-Level Kaamatan Festival at Hongkod Koisaan KDCA. * 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
30-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Solar streetlights for all Sabah villages
Anwar speaking to Pairin (right) while Hajiji (left) looks on at the Hongkod Koisaan KDCA Hall.-Information Department photo KOTA KINABALU (May 30): Solar-powered streetlights will be installed in nearly all villages and rural areas in Sabah starting this year. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as part of the federal government's immediate efforts to expand basic amenities for rural communities. He stated that this measure was implemented after discovering that previous proposals involved excessively high costs. Now, the government has successfully formulated a more practical and feasible plan to be carried out in phases using solar technology. 'We are starting in Sabah. Almost all villages will have solar-powered streetlights this year. They are affordable yet bright, and I have approved the necessary allocation,' he said during his speech at the official opening of the 2025 Sabah State-Level Kaamatan Festival Celebration at the Hongkod Koisaan Hall (KDCA) on Friday. In his address, Anwar emphasized the importance of close cooperation between the state and federal governments, stating that Sabah's demands are now being heard directly in national development meetings such as the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan. This new approach reflects a major shift in development policy formulation, which is no longer entirely decided at the federal ministry level without direct consideration of state needs. 'That is why, if we want Sabah to progress, there must be a spirit to build Sabah's strength and do this together with a sense of unity within one nation,' he said. He also assured that the Federal Government is ready to discuss revenue-sharing matters with the Sabah State Government, as previously agreed with Sarawak, including oil and gas issues. 'I have no problem prioritizing revenue for Sabah, but let the negotiations be conducted harmoniously, not through shouting and cursing. I suggest working together with the State Government and cooperating with the Federal Government so that the benefits reach the people,' he added. Anwar also praised the spirit of unity among Sabah's diverse ethnic groups and the role of the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) in preserving the heritage and noble values of the local community. Also present were Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Deputy Chief Ministers Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam and Datuk Ir. Shahelmey Yahya and KDCA President Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan.
