All GRS assemblymen to defend seats — Joachim
TELUPID (Aug 3): All current state assemblymen under Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) will continue to represent the coalition in the upcoming 17th State Election, said Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
He made the affirmation during the Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Telupid annual general meeting recently.
Dr Joachim, who is acting president of PBS, said the GRS government is capable of guaranteeing political stability in Sabah as it comprises eight local parties that prioritise the state's development.
He said this stability has been a key driver of economic growth since GRS assumed leadership of the state.
'GRS must continue to govern Sabah to ensure the continuity of comprehensive economic progress,' he said.
Dr Joachim also urged PBS Telupid members to unite and fully support division chief and Telupid assemblyman Datuk Jonnybone J. Kurum in retaining the seat.
'Jonnybone has been vocal in the State Assembly and is committed to the people of Telupid. It is only right that we ensure his re-election,' said Dr Joachim, who is also the Minister of Local Government and Housing.
He congratulated organising chairman Marcellus Jeffrey and the PBS Telupid Division committee for the successful event, while also acknowledging PBS chief advisor Datuk Seri Panglima Michael Asang, former Labuk assemblyman, for his continued presence and contributions.
'It should be remembered that Telupid was once part of the Labuk constituency, and Datuk Seri Michael Asang played a significant role in this area,' he added.
Among those present were Labuk assemblyman and Gagasan Rakyat Sabah chief Datuk Samad Jamri, as well as representatives from Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) and Gagasan Rakyat Telupid Division.
Meanwhile, Jonnybone thanked Dr Joachim for attending the event despite his tight schedule and expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Local Government and Housing for allocations to repair the Telupid Native Court building.
He also welcomed upcoming legislative amendments aimed at improving the institution.
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