KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s opposition Parti Warisan would rather work with the people than worry about their political alliances, says Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.
Denying claims of a collaboration with Sabah Umno, Shafie stressed that Warisan remains independent and focused solely on the interests of Sabahans.
“(Sabah) Umno said they want to work with Warisan. I want to clarify that Warisan is not working with any party. Warisan works for the people of Sabah, as Sabahans, for Sabah’s future,” he said, dismissing speculation of political alliances.
He also reiterated Warisan’s commitment to the anti-hopping law, ensuring that elected representatives remain loyal to the people’s mandate.
“Some politicians join a party with the hope of becoming a minister, and if that does not happen, they jump to another party.
“But now, with the anti-party hopping law enforced in Sabah, that is no longer an option. Don’t worry, I know the law, and that will not happen anymore,” he told attendees at Warisan’s Chinese New Year gathering in Tenom on Saturday (Feb 15).
Shafie stressed that voters should focus on electing capable leaders rather than being fixated on party affiliations.
“This is about choosing leaders who can govern Sabah for the people, not for personal gain.”
Warisan also stressed its stance as a party for all Sabahans, representing a diverse, multiracial society.
“That is why I founded Warisan as a multiracial party. We have Kadazandusun, Sino, Chinese, Sabah Brunei, Bajau, everyone is part of this struggle,” he said.
He urged voters to think beyond individual politicians and prioritise their rights as Sabahans.
“The right to vote belongs to you. You must ensure that your vote secures the future of your children, not mine.”
He also highlighted persistent issues in Sabah despite the state’s wealth in natural resources.
“How can a resource-rich state still have people struggling? There is electricity, but sometimes it has to be rationed. Some areas have no phone signal at all,” he pointed out.
Shafie reminded voters that the upcoming state election, expected by September, is about choosing a chief minister who can drive real change.
He called for a transparent government that ensures Sabah’s resources - gold, timber, land, and oil and gas - are managed for the benefit of the people, not private interests.
Shafie added that while he has the means to retire, his dedication to Sabah keeps him in the fight.
“If I wanted to rest, I could. I have enough to sustain myself. But I love Sabahans, that is why I continue this struggle.”
