Local Leadership a Reality Under GRS

Joniston presenting ICT equipments to Kg Nuluhon Baru JKKK chairman and local STAR leader Lodimon Balantis who received it on behalf St Nerry Roman Catholic Church

5 October 2025

KIULU: The long-held aspiration for Sabah to be led by local parties has been realised under the leadership of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), said GRS Information Chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.

He said GRS, a coalition of local-based parties, continues to serve as the strongest platform to unite the people while defending Sabah’s rights and protecting its interests.

“The people have long wanted to see local parties determining Sabah’s direction, and that is now a reality under GRS,” he said during a handover ceremony of ICT equipment to Catholic churches in Mantob on Sunday.

Joniston, who is also Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Information Chief and Kiulu Assemblyman, said the growing public sentiment reflects a clear preference for strong, united local leadership in Sabah.

“When Pakatan Harapan decided to support Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor as Chief Minister, it showed their acknowledgement of the people’s desire for local parties to continue leading the state,” he said.

“This was in contrast to Warisan and PKDM, who supported Umno’s bid to take over the state government, that’s the clear difference,” he added, referring to the failed ‘Langkah Kinabalu’ attempt to topple Hajiji’s administration in January 2023.

Joniston said GRS remains relevant as a coalition built on constructive partnership and mutual respect among its component parties.

“In politics, differences will always exist. What matters is how we manage them, with respect, patience, and a focus on the people’s welfare,” he said.

He added that close cooperation among Sabah’s leaders enables better coordination in addressing key issues such as rural development, infrastructure, and economic opportunities.

At the event, Joniston presented a laptop and projector to four Catholic churches in Mantob, emphasising that GRS is committed to serving all communities regardless of background.

He noted that the state government remains attentive to the needs of mission schools, Chinese private schools, and non-Muslim religious organisations.

“This year alone, RM70 million has been allocated for these institutions, while RM90 million has been set aside for next year, the highest allocation ever, reflecting the GRS Plus government’s commitment to inclusivity and fairness,” he said.