PBS Melalap Urged to Strengthen Support for GRS

Dr Joachim (middle) receiving a memento during the event

26 July 2025

TENOM: Acting President of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, has called on all members of the PBS Melalap Division to continue their efforts in securing victory for Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in the Melalap state constituency during the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election (PRN17).

Delivering his speech at the 40th Annual General Meeting of the PBS Melalap Division, held at the Sabah Murut Cultural Centre today, Dr Joachim underlined the vital role of commitment and unity across all levels of the party.

“As Acting President, I will do my best to visit every division, to meet and engage with members on the ground—especially as we head towards the next state election. Our goal is to lift their spirits and galvanise their efforts in support of GRS,” he said.

He added that candidate selection should not overshadow the broader objective of unity and victory.

“Whoever is named as a candidate, regardless of age or gender, if they contest under the PBS banner, we must give them our full and unwavering support,” he stressed.

Dr Joachim, who also serves as Deputy Chief Minister II, acknowledged PBS’s desire to field a candidate in Melalap but emphasised that the ultimate priority is ensuring a win for GRS.

“There has been no detailed discussion yet at the highest level of GRS leadership regarding the candidate for Melalap. However, what matters most is that GRS emerges victorious,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of retaining the GRS-led State Government, which he said continues to show firm commitment to upholding Sabah’s rights, including its negotiations with the Federal Government.

Expressing confidence in the party's grassroots machinery, Dr Joachim said he believes that, with sustained effort and unity, GRS will triumph in the next election.

“We are confident that Sabah will continue to progress and prosper under the stewardship of the GRS government,” he added.

Dr Joachim concluded by thanking Division Chief Martin Johanis and Organising Chairman Datuk Fredian Gan for the invitation to officiate the meeting. He also acknowledged Datuk Dr Daniel Kinsik, who chaired the meeting in his capacity as PBS Vice President and Supreme Council Member.