KOTA KINABALU: Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM) has announced its decision to withdraw support for the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) state government led by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
However, KDM’s decision will not affect the GRS coalition's majority, as the party currently holds only one seat in the state assembly—Paginatan, represented by Datuk Rusdin Riman.
Announcing the move on Saturday (Aug 15), KDM acting president Priscella Peter said the decision was unanimously agreed upon by the party’s supreme council alongside 300 grassroots leaders from 25 divisions as part of their preparations for the upcoming election.
“We have decided to move forward without being part of the GRS government. It is a heavy decision, but we must make it in the interest of our party and our supporters. What is important is that we show our grassroots that we have a clear direction,” Priscella said, adding that the move was influenced by the outcome of the previous state election.
“We need to take action to regain the trust of our grassroots. We must show the people that we are acting now, rather than waiting for the dissolution of Parliament.”
Priscella added that KDM will engage with other local parties to explore forming a "Borneo Bloc," noting that this aligns with what the younger generation wants. She cited state opposition party Parti Warisan, led by Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, and Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan’s Sabah STAR as potential allies.
“Warisan yes, Sabah STAR yes—but we haven't finalised anything because we still need to meet formally,” she said when asked about potential partners. “We are friends; we talk over coffee. But a final decision has yet to be made.”
She noted that no timeframe has been set, as any alliance requires thorough discussions and approval from the supreme council.
On whether Rusdin will be asked to step down as chairman of the state-owned Sabah Credit Corporation following the pullout, Priscella said, “If the constitution and protocol dictate it, then so be it.”
Addressing speculation regarding KDM deputy president Datuk Wetrom Bahanda—the Kota Marudu MP rumoured to be leaving the party—Priscella clarified that his status remains unchanged and that he has been busy with Rungus cultural association activities.
“As of now, we have not received any resignation letter from him,” she said, explaining that Wetrom’s absence from the supreme council meeting in Papar was simply due to his tight schedule.
Neither Rusdin nor Wetrom could be reached for comment following the announcement.
KDM clarified that it remains part of the federal Unity Government.
