GRS Slogan Echoes State Anthem, Urging Unity Among Sabahans

12 July 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The slogan “Rumah Kita, Kita Jaga” is a patriotic call for Sabahans to take ownership of their state’s future, rather than a display of hostility towards the Federal Government.

Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Information Chief, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, made this clarification during the inaugural joint convention of PBS and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR).

Joniston explained that the slogan embodies the deep emotional connection Sabahans feel for their homeland, echoing the spirit of unity, responsibility, and pride found in the state anthem.

He emphasised that the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) slogan was carefully chosen to inspire a sense of local stewardship and to reaffirm the importance of empowering Sabah-based leadership in decision-making processes.

Quoting lyrics from the state anthem, “Sabah tanah airku, negeri kita yang tercinta” and “Sabah negeri merdeka”, he said the message resonates with Sabahans’ shared duty to safeguard their state and remain united.

“The slogan is by no means anti-Federal. Sabah remains fully committed to Malaysia. However, we seek to be treated as an equal partner, one whose voice is heard and respected in shaping national policies,” Joniston said.

He stressed that key decisions relating to infrastructure, education, and development must take into account Sabah’s unique context, rather than be unilaterally made by those in Putrajaya who may lack a true understanding of the state’s challenges.

Joniston criticised the recent Federal decisions made without consulting the Sabah government, including the formation of the Jawatankuasa Kemajuan Desa Madani (JKDM) and the announcement of joint oil and gas development in the Ambalat waters.

While he acknowledged the increase in Sabah’s special grant, from RM53 million to RM600 million, as a positive step, he reiterated GRS’s continued demand for the return of 40% of revenue entitlement, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

Refuting claims that “Rumah Kita, Kita Jaga” is mere political rhetoric, Joniston underscored that it represents a sincere and pressing call for equitable treatment, shared responsibility, and meaningful autonomy within the Malaysian Federation.

“If this concept is genuinely embraced, it can foster a more harmonious relationship between the Sabah and Federal governments, dispelling any lingering doubts about our shared commitment to Sabah’s progress in tandem with Peninsular Malaysia.

“Honouring what rightfully belongs to Sabah would go a long way in building a harmonious, united, and stronger Malaysia,” he concluded.