Joniston Urges Political Maturity and Stability in Post-Election Governance

11 January 2026

KIULU: Post-election political dynamics must be managed with maturity and guided by the interests of the people and the stability of the state to ensure the effective functioning of government administration, said Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.

He said cooperation forged after elections is a strategic necessity to ensure the government has the capacity to govern in a stable manner and to implement planned development programmes effectively.

“The priority after an election is to ensure administrative stability. Without a stable foundation, the implementation of policies and development initiatives cannot proceed as planned,” said Joniston, who is also the information chief of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).

He stressed that GRS remains firm in its principles and direction while adopting a pragmatic approach to decision-making that delivers direct benefits to the people and the state.

“This approach is centred on ensuring that the government functions effectively, public services operate smoothly, and local issues are addressed in a progressive and systematic manner,” he said.

Joniston added that political maturity must be reflected in the ability to manage differences constructively, without compromising shared interests or undermining social stability.

He was speaking at a thanksgiving ceremony held in conjunction with the Christmas and New Year 2026 celebrations at Pekan Kiulu today, attended by more than 1,000 community leaders and representatives from various religions and denominations.

In this context, the Kiulu assemblyman emphasised that Sabah’s long-standing tradition of racial and religious tolerance remains a vital foundation for the state’s long-term harmony and stability.

“The ability of leaders and communities to come together across differences in belief, particularly during religious celebrations, reflects our strength and maturity as a state,” he said.

Joniston noted that political stability has a direct impact on development in areas such as Kiulu, including the continuity of projects, the timely channelling of allocations, and more effective resolution of public concerns.

“The people want to see tangible results in their daily lives, and this can only be achieved through a stable administration and the cooperation of all parties,” he said.

He called on the people of Kiulu to continue upholding the spirit of unity and not to allow differences in views or beliefs to disrupt community harmony.