Latest news with #Pandikar
Borneo Post
28-06-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Pandikar's brinkmanship jolted him to higher profile
Pandikar Amin By first sulking and going on the offensive for having been sidelined in the favour and election seats shares in GRS, Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Hj Mulia unexpectedly gained a stronger foothold in Sabah politics! Speaking last April, he made a threat that Usno 'may be forced to contest solo in the upcoming state election if it continues to be belittled and sidelined' in the GRS coalition. He pointed to the 'dismissive attitude' by some leaders within GRS, who questioned Usno's right to demand seats despite the party's efforts to build grassroots support. Within three days, on May 1, Gagasan Rakyat Bingkor Deputy Division Chief Rafie Robert and Kiulu Deputy Chief, Datuk George Teo, told Usno that it was free to leave the GRS if it feels the ruling coalition cannot meet its demands or felt it has been belittled. With disregard for any decorum, Rafie said bluntly, 'If you are dissatisfied … don't force yourself to stay … just leave.' 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. His latest no-nonsense pro-Sabah speech in Kunak, in which he raised Sabahans' grievances under the federal policies, has now gone viral and defined his and Usno's political stance. His strategy of advocating strongly for Sabah's greater autonomy within the GRS coalition has indeed enhanced his political influence. This 'brinkmanship' – pushing the boundaries of expected relationship norm in GRS – to the point of threatening to go it alone in the forthcoming PRN17, has likely boosted his clout within the coalition and among Sabahans for several reasons: 1. He appeals to the Sabah Sentiment: The desire for greater autonomy and a fairer share of resources is deeply felt among many Sabahans. By publicly and aggressively championing these causes, Pandikar positions himself as a strong advocate for Sabah's interests, resonating with voters who feel marginalized or ignored by the federal government. This strengthens his base of support. 2. 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?
Daily Express
15-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Local parties must lead Sabah's political future
Published on: Sunday, June 15, 2025 Published on: Sun, Jun 15, 2025 Text Size: Hajiji and Pandikar are being greeted by attendees. KOTA BELUD: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has stressed that local parties must remain dominant in Sabah politics and take priority in forming alliances for the upcoming 17th state election. He stated that the current Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government, led by local parties, must continue and that the upcoming election would be crucial to achieving this objective. Advertisement Hajiji reiterated the importance of defending GRS as a local coalition in line with grassroots sentiment favouring homegrown leadership in state governance. He warned against handing over GRS's cause to those who may harm the coalition, calling on all leaders and members of GRS component parties to engage with the public actively. Hajiji urged component parties, including Usno, to work together under GRS to ensure electoral victory and to continue advocating the coalition's "Sabah First" and "Rumah Kita, Kita Jaga" principles. He underlined that every GRS party, regardless of size, has a vital role in upholding Sabah's rights and must unite to regain the people's mandate. Hajiji also expressed appreciation for Usno's loyalty to GRS, referencing party president Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia's slogan, 'Usno and GRS are inseparable.' * 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
07-06-2025
- Politics
- Daily Express
Plans for aircraft replica at Tanjung Aru park
Published on: Saturday, June 07, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 07, 2025 By: Crystal E Hermenegildus Text Size: The Double Six tragedy in 1976. Kota Kinabalu: There are plans to build a replica of the Nomad aircraft involved in the 1976 Double Six tragedy at Prince Philip Park, Tanjung Aru, as part of its redevelopment, says Tanjung Aru Eco-Development (TAED) Chairman Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia. He said the intention is not to relocate the existing memorial in Sembulan but to create an additional site of remembrance within the redeveloped Prince Philip Park. Advertisement 'This is about helping the public, especially younger people, understand the importance of the June 6, 1976 tragedy, which took the lives of several State leaders, including former Chief Minister Tun Fuad Stephens,' he told reporters after attending the 49th anniversary commemoration at the crash site in Sembulan on Friday (June 6). Acknowledging that the idea of a replica might be painful for some victims' families, he expressed willingness to meet them personally and adjust the plans if needed. He said it is not to sensationalise the event, but to honour those who perished. Pandikar said the park's redevelopment will also include elements that highlight Sabah's historical journey, such as a museum-like archive showcasing the State's path to independence. 'People might not go out of their way to visit formal archives, but if we place educational elements in a park they already enjoy, it becomes a space for everyday learning,' he said. The Double Six memorial component is expected to cost between RM100,000 and RM200,000, forming part of the larger RM35 million park redevelopment project. Pandikar expressed concern that many Malaysians, especially those from Peninsular Malaysia, are still unaware of the tragedy. He said during a recent talk most attendees had never heard of the incident. He supports the idea of incorporating the Double Six tragedy into the national school syllabus and was encouraged by the high turnout of young people at the recent remembrance ceremony. 'While the Sembulan site remains the official memorial, we support establishing more access points nearby to help more people, including foreigners, understand this important part of our history,' he said. The revitalisation of Prince Philip Park is part of a broader eco-tourism initiative under the Tanjung Aru Eco-Development plan. 'Our goal is to turn the park into a space that preserves memories, promotes learning and reflects our identity as Sabahans,' Pandikar 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
Borneo Post
06-06-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Double Six memorial proposed at Prince Philip Park to broaden public awareness
Pandikar and the Sunduvan team at the Double Six memorial site in Sembulan. KOTA KINABALU (June 6): Tanjung Aru Eco Development (TAED) chairman Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia has unveiled plans to establish a Double Six memorial as part of the redevelopment of Prince Philip Park in Tanjung Aru. Pandikar said the proposal will be included in the park's redevelopment blueprint but will not be categorized as part of the general beautification efforts. The project is estimated to cost over RM200,000. One of the key features of the memorial includes a realistic replica of the Nomad aircraft crashing into the South China Sea, symbolizing the tragic event of June 6, 1976. 'We want to portray what really happened on that fateful day,' Pandikar said at a press conference today, held at the current Double Six Monument in Sembulan alongside members of the NGO Sunduvan Sabah. The proposal also includes the installation of a replica of the Keningau Oath Stone and other elements that represent significant historical moments in Sabah's past, such as the Merdeka parade in Kota Kinabalu on August 31, 1963. 'The idea is that most people don't normally visit the Sembulan site as it is relatively secluded. In contrast, Prince Philip Park sees many visitors. If this plan materializes, more people — locals and tourists alike — will be exposed to the history of the Double Six tragedy and other important events in Sabah's history,' he said. Pandikar acknowledged that some family members of the Double Six victims have expressed objections, as they prefer not to be reminded of the tragedy. 'I respect their feelings, but these individuals were also national leaders. The public has a right to know what happened. I plan to meet the families personally to explain our intentions and hopefully gain their blessings,' he added. While emphasizing that the Sembulan memorial remains the official site of the incident, Pandikar stressed the importance of having complementary installations in more accessible locations. 'The Double Six tragedy was a pivotal moment in Sabah's history. Expanding awareness through educational and symbolic displays at places like Prince Philip Park would help both Malaysians and international visitors understand the significance of that era,' he said.
Daily Express
06-06-2025
- General
- Daily Express
TAED plans Nomad replica to honour Double Six victims
Published on: Friday, June 06, 2025 Published on: Fri, Jun 06, 2025 By: Crystal Hermenegildus Text Size: Pandikar and members of Sunduvan Sabah NGO pose for a group photo after the 49th anniversary commemoration of the Double Six tragedy. KOTA KINABALU: A replica of the Nomad aircraft from the 1976 Double Six tragedy may be installed at Prince Philip Park, Tanjung Aru, as part of its redevelopment, said Tanjung Aru Eco-Development (TAED) chairman Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia. He said the existing memorial in Sembulan would remain, with the replica serving as an additional tribute to educate the public, especially youth, about the crash that claimed several state Cabinet members, including then Chief Minister Tun Fuad Stephens. Advertisement Pandikar assured the replica would honour the victims without sensationalising the tragedy, and said plans could be revised if concerns are raised by the victims' families. He said this after attending the 49th-anniversary commemoration at the crash site in Sembulan on Friday. * 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
