PETALING JAYA: The Sabah state government will not stop Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia from setting up shop in the state and will continue to work with Pakatan Harapan to deliver its mandate.
Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal (pic) said they respect the mandate and will continue to govern the state and fulfil what Sabahans want in terms of development.
"With regards to the entry of Bersatu to Sabah, we cannot stop them or any other party. Our laws also allow for new parties to be formed," he said in a statement on Monday (Feb 18).
Mohd Shafie said Warisan is clear on its party stand and direction.
"We have worked with Pakatan Harapan before, and after the elections, we formed the federal government together, and we will continue to work with them for the best interests of the people," he added.
Mohd Shafie said he is aware of their supporters and the people of Sabah's sentiment over Bersatu's decision to form a Sabah branch.
"My advice is not be emotional and we remain focused to develop the state for the benefit of the people of Sabah."
"Governing Sabah to the best of our ability and ensuring that our rights will be reinstated and affirmed, as per the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) remains our priority," he said.
On Friday (Feb 15), Bersatu chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced that Bersatu was venturing into Sabah to strengthen the Warisan-led government.
He stressed that it was not aimed at wresting control of the state from Parti Warisan Sabah, but said they were merely providing an avenue for former Umno members who do not wish to join Warisan.
Dr Mahathir pointed out that although Warisan was not part of Pakatan, they have agreed to let Warisan lead the coalition in Sabah in what he described an "extraordinary arrangement".
He said Bersatu would only accept former Umno members and those from other parties except Warisan, PKR, DAP and Amanah members.
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