KOTA KINABALU: Senator Tan Sri Anifah Aman has stated that he does not mind if Parti Cinta Sabah (PCS) is not given the chance to contest in the upcoming state election, as their priority is to ensure Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) remains in power.
The PCS president mentioned that while some party members are interested in certain constituencies, the party has not set its sights on any specific seats.
"I believe there is no point in contesting five, six, or even ten seats if victory is uncertain. An election is not just about participation but about securing a win.
"So, if we do not get any seats, that is fine. We fully support GRS. Winning is more important than just contesting. There is no use in me winning if our coalition loses," he said.
Anifah, who also chairs the state-owned investment promotion agency Invest Sabah, stressed that GRS must continue governing Sabah to uphold the people’s mandate, as many crucial matters remain unresolved.
"I believe GRS’ continuity is in everyone’s best interest. We must be cautious; there is a Malay proverb about being misled by gossip and false promises.
"We should not fall for empty rhetoric,” he told reporters after Invest Sabah’s breaking of fast event on Friday (March 14), which was graced by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
However, he added that PCS remains in discussions with its allies in GRS to determine the best way forward.
"This is not about individuals or candidates — it is about Sabah," he said.
When asked whether GRS should contest the election alone, given that the state polls are due in September, Anifah said the matter will be decided after careful discussions.
"If there are other coalitions that could strengthen our chances of winning, then why not? What’s important is that GRS must take the lead. We should be the ones steering the way, not just following along," he said.
He also stressed that the interests of the state and its people must come first.
"We cannot make rash decisions … we must choose what is best for Sabah," he added.
On whether he plans to contest in the upcoming election, the former Foreign Affairs Minister replied:
"I never left. I have always been with the state and the people. Even after my parliamentary term, I continued to serve in the Senate. No one loves Sabah more than its own people.
"No outsider can truly voice Sabah’s concerns better than us. Some say, ‘You are the leaders of tomorrow.’ That’s wrong. You are the leaders of today. You will decide what is best for your future.
"We can only guide you. Some of us are in our 60s and 70s, so we provide advice, but the decisions lie with you. The outcome of many seats will depend on young voters.
"I have been an MP, a minister, and a senator. I am grateful for those opportunities. I shall continue to serve the people for as long as I am needed. If not, then I thank everyone sincerely," he said.
Meanwhile, Hajiji presented contributions to 20 orphans from Rumah Amal Kasih Kingfisher and 20 students from Maahad Tahfiz Tuaran.
