Discussions on new political alliances without GRS–PH Plus premature

Borneo Post

29-04-2025

Nizam
KOTA KINABALU (Apr 29): Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Haji Nizam DSP Haji Abu Bakar Titingan, welcomes and supports the statement made by the Deputy Secretary-General of the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, who emphasized that the 17th Sabah State Election (PRN17) must be understood within the context of local politics, which differs from the political model at the Federal level.
As stressed by Armizan, Nizam said the original principle behind the formation of the Unity Government was to ensure stability at the Federal level, without imposing a uniform political formula at the state level.
Sabah has its own uniqueness that must be respected, just like Sarawak and Johor, and any political approach must consider the realities and sensitivities of local politics.
He said the cooperation between GRS and PH Plus in Sabah is the result of mature negotiations following the formation of the Unity Government and has proven successful in bringing stability to the state administration. 'This is also reflected in the successful implementation of the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan, which has boosted progress and the well-being of the people of Sabah across various sectors, including education, infrastructure, digital economy, and natural resource management,' said Nizam in a statement on Tuesday.
He emphasized that any effort or discussion toward forming a new political alliance that bypasses GRS–PH Plus and disregards the spirit of consensus that has been agreed upon is premature and disrespects the mandate and stability that have been nurtured in this state. Any changes must be based on inclusive discussions, respect for the existing structure, and prioritize the interests of the people of Sabah.
'At the same time, I express my appreciation to our colleagues in Pakatan Harapan (PH) Sabah, who have stood firm in defending the leadership of Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor when the state faced major political changes at the Federal level. This proves that cooperation built on sincerity and the people's interests can withstand any challenge,' said the Gagasan Rakyat information chief.
He also supported the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who has consistently fought for the rights of Sabah and Sarawak as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). His more progressive and determined approach in empowering Sabah should be appreciated and continued.
In this regard, Nizam said GRS will remain open and committed to continuing cooperation with PH Plus in Sabah, for the continuity of the state's development and the well-being of all its people.