No Official Decision on Warisan Joining GRS

7 January 2025

KOTA KINABALU: There has been no formal discussion or decision 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 the matter in response to media queries and concerns from GRS supporters, particularly from PBS. He emphasized that the suggestion to invite Warisan to join GRS originated from individual leaders, not the coalition's official stance.

"This is an opinion expressed by some individuals, but it has not been brought to the table for discussion among GRS or PBS leadership," Joniston, who is also the PBS Information Chief, said.

He added that while GRS welcomes the idea of uniting local parties for the benefit of Sabah, there are established processes to be followed. "We appreciate the interest in strengthening Sabah's political framework, but we urge supporters and the public to avoid jumping to conclusions based on individual opinions."

The suggestion for Warisan to join GRS surfaced after its 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 deliberate the application. Mandut also emphasised that uniting local parties would benefit Sabah, provided all parties prioritise unity over differences.