GRS denies Warisan collaboration talks

GABUNGAN Rakyat Sabah (GRS) has dismissed claims of inviting opposition party Warisan to join the ruling coalition.

This comes after a youth leader from GRS extended such an invitation to the Sabah opposition party. 

GRS information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai clarified that there has been no formal discussion or decision on the matter within GRS or Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS).

“The suggestion came from individual leaders and doesn’t reflect the coalition’s official stance,” Joniston said in Kota Kinabalu. 

His remarks came after questions from supporters, particularly from PBS, seeking clarity following recent comments about Warisan joining GRS.

Joniston said the coalition supports uniting local parties but noted that any such a proposal must follow proper procedures.

“This is an opinion expressed by some individuals, but it has not been brought to the table for discussion among the GRS or PBS leadership,” he said.

He urged supporters to avoid jumping to conclusions based on personal views.

“We appreciate the interest in strengthening Sabah’s political framework, but decisions like this require formal deliberation,” he added.

The issue arose after a local media outlet quoted Sabah opposition leader Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal as saying that GRS had declined to work with Warisan.

However, at a Christmas and New Year function organised by the party over the weekend, Shafie noted that he has long pushed for a united political front but claimed that “coming from them (GRS), they don’t want to work with Warisan.”

PBS Youth chief Christopher Mandut then suggested that Warisan apply to join GRS, saying the coalition’s Supreme Council would review the application.

Mandut said uniting local parties would benefit Sabah, provided differences are set aside for the state’s future.

Meanwhile, another online news outlet reported Sabah Star president Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan saying that GRS was open to working with Warisan. - January 8, 2025