LEADERSHIP transition is inevitable, but Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) must stick to its core objectives as envisaged in the party’s anthem, said Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan in response to news of PBS president Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili taking leave in June.
“When you talk about leadership, there must be a time for transition. For instance, from myself to Ongkili and from Ongkili to who knows who next.
“This is normal. In Ongkili’s instance, his decision might be influenced by his health conditions, leading him to consider the next step. From there, we no longer have to decide, but they, the present leaders, will,” said the 84-year-old PBS premier adviser when met at the KadazanDusun Cultural Association Hall in Penampang today.
On Saturday, PBS secretary-general Datuk Julita Majungki announced that Ongkili, 70, will be taking a leave of absence from the party from June 1. The party’s deputy president, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, will assume the role of acting president, while information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai will act as deputy president for the non-Muslim quota.
Pairin, who founded PBS in 1985, expressed hope for a “good and sensible” leadership transition when it eventually happens, while urging the party leaders to remain true to the PBS foundational principles as encapsulated in the party’s anthem, “Bersatu dalam PBS” (United in PBS).
“The music is all tuned after Sabah, for the future of Sabah. It is about working together. It is not just about Tan Sri Pairin, but also Sabahans and the younger generations,” he said.
Pairin reflected on his political journey, acknowledging that some of his decisions have drawn both criticism and praise, yet he said that his era has passed.
He urged PBS to chart its own course forward, with members safeguarding issues that will impact both current and future generations.
“For the present generation and younger generation in Sabah, whether they are from the indigenous people or other races, they must think of Sabah. They need to ensure Sabah will progress. We must protect Sabah against opposition from wherever it may come from, even if they are from the peninsula. Their politics are different from ours,” he said.
Towards this end, Pairin also expressed hope the ongoing cooperation talks between PBS and Sabah Star will yield a positive result amid PBS undergoing such a leadership shuffle.
“I hope the ongoing talks between PBS and Star will yield positive results and contribute to the betterment of Sabah’s future. I am not sure what will happen, but I was made to understand by both parties that they are drawing up a memorandum of understanding. So, we will wait for the outcome,” he said. – The Vibes, April 8, 2024
