KOTA KINABALU: There has been no official deliberation within Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) or Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) regarding the suggestion for Parti Warisan to join the coalition.
GRS information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai clarified that the suggestion to invite Warisan came from individual leaders and does not reflect the coalition's official stance.
The media and GRS supporters, particularly from PBS, had sought clarification of its position on the matter.
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Bangkuai said Tuesday (Jan 7) that while GRS welcomes the idea of uniting local parties for the state's benefit, there are processes to be followed.
"This (Warisan joining GRS) is an opinion expressed by some individuals, but it has not been brought to the table for discussion among (the) leadership," said Bangkuai, who is also PBS information chief.
He said PBS appreciated the interest in strengthening Sabah’s political framework, but urged supporters and the public to avoid jumping to conclusions based on individual opinions.
The suggestion arose after Warisan president Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal reportedly claimed that GRS had repeatedly declined offers to collaborate ahead of the upcoming state election.
In response, PBS Youth chief Christopher Mandut suggested that Warisan apply to join GRS and that the coalition's supreme council would discuss the application.
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Mandut also said uniting local parties would benefit Sabah, provided all parties prioritise unity over differences.
On Monday (Jan 6), Sabah STAR president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said the possibility for Warisan and GRS to work together is always there.
“After all, politics is the ‘art of the possible’. Local parties should be united. Make unity a duty,” said the GRS deputy chairman.
