KOTA KINABALU: Sabah PKR is in the final stages of finalising its candidate list, says its election director Datuk Peto Galim.
“We are at the last stage of identifying potential areas for candidacy. Later tonight (Nov 10), we’ll have another session with Sabah Pakatan Harapan on seat negotiations. Hopefully, this will be the last meeting so we can finally rest,” he said.
Speaking to reporters after the party’s political bureau meeting, Galim explained that PKR first identifies promising seats, then presents them to Sabah Pakatan Harapan for a joint review.
Sabah PKR chief Datuk Mustapha Sakmud and Sabah Pakatan and PKR leadership council political bureau chief Datuk Seri Christina Liew were also present.
Mustapha said seat allocation would be based on the party’s strengths in each area, and that they welcome proposals from Gabungan Rakyat Sabah.
Regarding an informal meeting with Sabah Barisan Nasional on Nov 4, Mustapha shared that the groups discussed strategies to navigate Sabah’s political landscape ahead of the 17th state election, which must be held by September next year.
“We were invited by Barisan secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir. The meeting was informal, just casual talks over coffee. We are aware of the challenges and public sentiments in Sabah, and it is essential to convey that understanding as we work towards the best governance for the state. Less politics, more action, that is our goal,” he said.
Stressing that the meeting did not formalise any deal between the two coalitions, Mustapha added, “Our discussions remain open to collaboration with any party, as long as formal negotiations are pending.
“For us in PKR, it is essential to consider local sentiments as we approach the election. Although the Pakatan-Barisan collaboration works well in Peninsular Malaysia, in Sabah’s context, we must recognise the importance of local aspirations. Sabahans want their rights championed.”
He highlighted issues such as the rights enshrined under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), the 40% revenue share, and other key local concerns that need addressing.
When asked about the potential for outside political interference, Mustapha noted that whether it’s called intervention or negotiation, each party has its own approach, but the ultimate goal is what’s best for Sabahans.
“We discuss things at our level, and, usually, the national leadership gives us the space to manage matters at the state level. But when there is a dispute, it typically concerns only a small number of seats, and we may seek guidance for unresolved matters,” he said.
Liew added that any remaining unresolved issues, particularly close to nomination day, would be brought to top leadership for advice and guidance.
