Allegations must be assesed wisely

1 July 2025

KENINGAU: A Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) leader, Datuk Robert Tawik Mansai, stressed the need for responsible political discourse and a spirit of unity in addressing development challenges in Sabah, particularly in an era where digital platforms can easily propagate misinformation.

He was responding to a statement by Sabah UMNO Youth Vice Chief, Bobby Balang, which went viral via a news portal. Bobby had been quoted during the Radu Tatap Radu programme in Kemabong last Sunday.

According to Robert, the call by the Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, urging the public to exercise discernment when evaluating allegations circulating on social media, was a timely and pertinent reminder.

“The Chief Minister has never underestimated the wisdom of the people of Sabah. On the contrary, he is calling for prudence, especially when false information can spread rapidly and damage reputations without evidence,” he said.

Robert, who is also the Deputy President of the STAR Party (Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku) Sabah, reaffirmed that the State Government welcomes public scrutiny and remains committed to the principles of transparency and good governance.

“It is clear, there is no room in this administration for concealing corrupt practices. GRS remains steadfast in strengthening institutional integrity and will act decisively when wrongdoing is proven,” he added.

Acknowledging that Sabah continues to face major challenges in infrastructure and utility services, Robert said the current State Government has taken proactive measures to address longstanding issues inherited from previous administrations.

“Development is not an excuse for corruption, it is our mission. Genuine progress requires both improved infrastructure and public trust, and that is what we are earnestly striving for,” he affirmed.

In his earlier remarks, Bobby Balang expressed disappointment over the Chief Minister’s call for caution regarding unverified allegations, arguing that failure to respond to corruption issues could deter investors.

“Investors will hesitate to commit to a place lacking integrity, regardless of how good the economic figures may be,” Bobby was reported as saying.

In response, Robert urged all political players, especially those within the Federal Unity Government, to adopt a more constructive approach guided by the interests of the people.

“Criticism from the sidelines is easy, but the people of Sabah need solutions, not political slogans. We call on all parties to work together in the people’s best interest, that is true leadership,” he asserted.