UNITY AMONG SABAH PARTIES KEY TO POLITICAL STABILITY, STATE DEVELOPMENT - DR JOACHIM

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 11 (Bernama) -- Unity among Sabah’s local political parties is essential for lasting stability and continued development in the state, said acting President of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

Dr Joachim, who is also Sabah’s Deputy Chief Minister II, stressed that even the best candidates cannot succeed without teamwork and cooperation.

“Credibility, responsibility and coordinated effort are the keys to political success. Candidates must work as one team within Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS). Solidarity and unity are the foundation of progress. We must work together for a better future for the state,” he said in a statement today.

Yesterday, Dr Joachim launched the PBS election machinery for the Kadamaian state constituency in Kota Belud, which was also attended by PBS secretary-general Datuk Julita Majungki, and vice-president cum Youth chief Datuk Dr Christopher Mandut.

Formed nearly four years ago, GRS unites PBS with Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat), United Sabah National Organisation (USNO), Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah (Harapan Rakyat), Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Parti Cinta Sabah (PCS).

The coalition, Dr Joachim said, has not only strengthened political influence but also enhanced cooperation in state development.

The Kundasang assemblyman added that political conflict brings no benefit, while stability and unity among local parties are crucial to attract investors, strengthen infrastructure, and ensure that state resources are used for the people’s benefit.

“Our goal is to stabilise politics, attract foreign investors and boost state revenue. We’ve doubled Sabah’s income from under RM4 billion to nearly RM8 billion, with reserves now at RM8.6 billion,” he noted.

He said GRS-led initiatives such as the Rumah Mesra SMJ housing programme and educational support reflect the coalition’s commitment to human capital development and youth employment.

GRS, he said, remains dedicated to building a skilled workforce to attract investors and create quality jobs, noting that “without trained manpower, investment growth will be limited.”

As one of Sabah’s oldest and most active parties with over 40 years of struggle, PBS remains committed to the state’s progress and the welfare of its people, Dr Joachim said.

PBS’s mission, he added, continues to focus on defending the rights of Sabahans, improving infrastructure such as schools and health clinics, and ensuring inclusive development for all communities.

-- BERNAMA