SANDAKAN: Parti Bangsa Malaysia (PBM), a party widely perceived as Sarawak-based, is reaffirming its intention to contest solo in the upcoming Sabah state election — maintaining that no political cooperation is being pursued at this stage.
PBM secretary-general Munan Laja said the party is open to possibilities in the future, but for now will rely on its own grassroots machinery and local leaders to contest selected seats.
“So, we go solo. Not unless one day there is another picture coming. At the moment, we will go solo,” he told reporters after officiating the party’s Jelajah PBM Sabah programme in Sandakan, on Sunday (June 15).
Held at Hotel Gloria in Bandar Letat, the event also marked the launch of the Tanjung Papat PBM division, which has attracted over 1,300 members in just one month.
Munan said the rapid growth in membership shows that Sabahans are responding positively to PBM’s message, which centres on clean, community-based leadership.
“PBM is a new party with no excess baggage. The candidates are local people, fresh faces,” he said, adding that the party is still assessing suitable candidates from among its divisions.
The party currently has seven active divisions in Sabah and intends to field candidates in those areas based on readiness and local support.
Sabah PBM chairman Jupperi Lenson, meanwhile, denied claims that PBM is attempting to impose Sarawak-based leadership on Sabah, saying the party’s multiracial and inclusive character makes it relevant nationwide.
“PBM is a national party... so the issue of whether we are a local or external party should not arise. What matters is the quality of leadership and an inclusive agenda,” he said.
Jupperi said PBM had been preparing for the state election since 2022 and is now active in seven areas, including Tanjung Papat, Bandau, Kota Belud, Tuaran, Tulid, and Kundasang.
He also said PBM is adapting the inclusive model it applied in Sarawak for Sabah’s unique political landscape.
“There should be no issue about where a party originated from. What matters is its service to the people and its relevance. PBM is here to offer something different,” he said.
Munan also reiterated that PBM will keep its options open if political dynamics shift before polling day.
