PBS remains firm in GRS

13 January 2025

By AVV

KOTA KINABALU,: The Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) has reaffirmed its stance to remain with the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).

Acting President of PBS, Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam stated that if Parti Warisan wishes to collaborate with PBS and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STARSABAH), it would be better for them to continue working together within GRS, rather than just with two parties, as this move seems aimed at dividing the parties within GRS.

“PBS has been part of GRS and is very committed to GRS since day one of its establishment. We (PBS) will remain with GRS forever,” said the Deputy Chief Minister II in response to Warisan's recent statement expressing interest in collaborating with PBS and STARSABAH.

He made this statement while conducting a "walkabout" in conjunction with the Chinese New Year at the Gaya Street Weekly Market here the day before (January 13).

Dr. Joachim, who is also the Minister of Local Government and Housing, emphasized that the opposition is politicizing issues of integrity related to GRS.

“In politics, we all rely on contributions, and this is something that is accepted; in fact, the whole country depends on contributions in politics. The way contributions are received may differ, but for me, we cannot associate receiving contributions from conglomerates, individuals, or other companies with issues of integrity,” he explained.

During the friendly visit, Dr. Joachim also engaged with and distributed 2025 calendars to Chinese traders and the public visiting the weekly market.

Also present were PBS Deputy Presidents, Datuk Seri Dr. Yee Moh Chai and Datuk Jahid Jahim; Vice Presidents, Datuk Henrus Anding and Datuk Johnny Mositun; PBS Secretary-General, Datuk Julita Majungki; Deputy Secretary-General, Datuk Jonnybone Kurum; PBS Treasurer, Datuk Lu Kim Yen; members of the Supreme Council; Youth Movement Chief, Christoper Mandut; Deputy Women’s Chief, Datin Seri Vicky Yee; PBS Information Chief, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai; PBS Information Chief for N.20 Api-Api, Yee Tsai Yew; as well as Youth and Women Excos, including Division Heads.

Dr. Joachim also thanked GRS Api-Api N.20 for participating in the friendly visit.

Earlier, he and his entourage also engaged with traders around Lido Market.

“Every Chinese New Year celebration is very special. Therefore, we gather with Division Heads and party members to engage with traders around Kota Kinabalu, including the community celebrating.

“May this Chinese New Year bring happiness, joy, progress, and prosperity to Sabah. We wish a Happy Chinese New Year to all the people of Sabah. May Sabah continue to be peaceful and prosperous,” he said.