Unified Approach Key to Ensuring Stable, Inclusive Government, Says Kiulu Assemblyman

19 July 2025

KIULU: Kiulu Assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai has urged local political parties to adopt a unified approach ahead of the upcoming state election, warning that those choosing to contest independently risk undermining political stability and public trust.

Speaking during a meet-the-people session and Papawantai Taasok ceremony on Saturday, Joniston emphasised that the current coalition under Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) has proven effective in delivering inclusive governance and long-term development for the state.

“The GRS government is heading in the same direction as Sarawak’s GPS government, which consists of local parties representing all communities. This model of cooperation is what’s best for Sabah,” he said.

Citing Sarawak’s Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) as an example, Joniston noted that despite holding a clear majority, PBB continues to work collaboratively with other parties to jointly drive the state's socio-economic progress.

“They do not govern in isolation. That willingness to work together is what enables Sarawak’s success , and Sabah should do the same,” he added.

Joniston, who also serves as Information Chief for both GRS and Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), was responding to recent announcements by Warisan and Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (PKDM) that they intend to stand independently in the state polls.

He described the move as a political strategy that runs counter to the people’s desire for a cohesive and forward-looking administration.

“While we respect every party’s right to contest on its own, the people will ultimately judge based on performance and outcomes. Stability is only possible when local parties choose cooperation over competition,” he said.

He stressed that mature politics must be accompanied by a genuine willingness to compromise and collaborate, not by pursuing isolated ambitions that weaken collective strength.

Joniston also criticised Warisan and PKDM for previously aligning with UMNO in a failed attempt to unseat Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, calling it a clear example of prioritising political ambition over state interests.

“Such actions reflect leadership that puts personal gain above the people’s welfare. It shakes public confidence and distracts from development goals,” he said.

Reaffirming his support for Hajiji’s leadership, Joniston noted that the GRS administration has demonstrated the effectiveness of a coalition of local parties, citing increased state reserves and expanded welfare initiatives as key achievements.

In Kiulu, he said, rural development efforts are ongoing under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) roadmap, including road upgrades to improve access to farms and villages.

“We fully acknowledge the existing challenges, particularly in water supply, electricity, and infrastructure, but we are taking responsibility and remain committed to progress,” he said.

He urged the public to continue supporting leadership that has delivered real and measurable outcomes, rather than being swayed by political manoeuvres that risk destabilising the state.