PBS Dismisses Exit Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty to GRS

12 October 2025

KIULU: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Information Chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai has dismissed speculation that the party plans to leave the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition, describing it as a deliberate attempt by certain quarters to sow confusion and undermine the coalition’s unity ahead of the state election.

The Kiulu assemblyman said the recurring rumours serve no purpose other than to unsettle supporters and disrupt the political stability that GRS has upheld through cooperation among its component parties.

“The issue of PBS leaving was never discussed in our recent Supreme Council meeting,” he said during a meet-the-people session at Kampung Lokub here on Sunday.

“In fact, our Acting President, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, once again reaffirmed PBS’s commitment to strengthening GRS as a solid local coalition that maintains a good and respectful working relationship with the Federal Government,” he added.

Joniston said PBS’s stance has always been guided by the principle that unity among local parties is vital for long-term political stability and for safeguarding Sabah’s interests.

While acknowledging that PBS remains sensitive to grassroots sentiments, he emphasised that what may be popular is not always right.

He cautioned that frequent shifts in political alignment are unhealthy, as they can create instability that hampers continuity and progress.

“We cannot afford to be in disarray because others will only benefit from our division,” he said, stressing the need for PBS and GRS to remain focused and cohesive as the election approaches.

“We recognise the dynamics of Sabah’s political landscape, and our decisions must be grounded in reality. PBS is committed to helping GRS grow into a dominant political force in Sabah, much like GPS in Sarawak,” Joniston added.