KOTA KINABALU: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), the state's oldest multicultural party, is not looking to be a lone hero in the upcoming 17th Sabah state election.
Acknowledging the evolving political landscape, acting president Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam (pic) stressed that PBS cannot win alone and must forge alliances.
“We need allies who share our political ideology, and I firmly believe we have found them in Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS),” he told over 1,000 divisional heads and members at PBS’ 40th anniversary dinner on Wednesday (March 5).
Also present were PBS president Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili, premier advisor and founder Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan and secretary-general Datuk Julita Majungki, to name a few.
Dr Gunsalam noted that GRS, formed to stabilise Sabah’s political landscape, allows its leaders to focus on economic and infrastructural development while providing a cohesive working environment.
“GRS is not about personal or political interests, it is about securing a brighter future for all Sabahans. We have chosen to be part of GRS because this coalition offers hope and opportunities for real progress.
“With a spirit of cooperation and a clear vision, GRS can propel Sabah toward greater prosperity. As a local-based coalition, it truly understands the needs and aspirations of Sabahans.
"PBS remains steadfast within GRS, despite external forces attempting to divide us,” he said.
With the state election approaching, Dr Gunsalam stressed that preparation is key to ensuring Sabah’s political stability.
He noted that the Memorandum of Understanding signed with Sabah STAR in April last year was a step towards strengthening GRS’ position.
“This memorandum is not a threat to other partners within GRS but rather reinforces our standing, particularly as we prepare for the upcoming elections,” he said.
While he did not refer to specific issues, Dr Gunsalam’s remarks come amid speculation that PBS and Sabah STAR are pushing for more Kadazandusun Murut (KDM) seats under the GRS banner and may consider contesting under their own logos if not accommodated.
“PBS is determined to defend the seven seats we won previously and is ready to expand our influence by contesting more seats in the next election. As a multi-ethnic party, our diversity is a strength that will drive us toward greater victory.
“To achieve this, negotiations on seat allocation within GRS must be thorough and fair to prevent overlapping contests or vote splitting, which could benefit the Opposition.
“More importantly, GRS must reinforce its role as the defender of Sabahans' rights by contesting as many seats as possible while preventing dominance by external parties that may not fully understand the people’s aspirations,” he said.
Dr Gunsalam stressed that strong cooperation among GRS members is vital in ensuring electoral success.
“We in PBS believe that GRS can maintain its cohesion, prevent internal conflicts, and win more contested seats.
"This will not only ensure political stability but also provide the best opportunity to rectify long-standing weaknesses in Sabah’s political landscape.
“As a key pillar of GRS, PBS remains committed to fighting for Sabahans’ rights and safeguarding the state’s interests. The 17th state election will be a crucial battleground in determining Sabah’s future.
"With meticulous preparation and strong strategies, we are on the right path to restoring the stability and progress that Sabahans aspire to,” he said.
Dr Gunsalam said PBS’ 40th anniversary is a time for its leaders and members to reflect on past achievements and the unwavering support of Sabahans.
“Over the past 40 years, PBS has navigated government, opposition, and alliances while remaining steadfast in its core principles. Despite challenges, the party has endured, proving its relevance in Sabah’s political landscape.
“Let us rise and continue this noble struggle,” he said, calling for a collective effort to ensure PBS remains dedicated to serving Sabah and its people.
Reaffirming the party’s commitment to stability, progress, and the full implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), he said the anniversary serves as a foundation to strengthen PBS, turning past experiences into valuable lessons and using victories as inspiration for greater success.
With a leadership transition underway, he urged members to strengthen PBS through unity and proactive engagement.
He also encouraged professionals and skilled individuals to join, stressing that loyalty and resilience are key to the party’s future.
“Let’s ensure PBS remains committed to its goals and core struggles,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ongkili, who served as president for six years, officially handed over the presidency duties to Dr Gunsalam in June last year after taking leave to focus on his health and recovery.
Dr Gunsalam will remain acting president until the party's next election, scheduled for this year.
However, PBS has decided to freeze its internal elections to prioritise preparations for the upcoming state election.
