GABUNGAN Rakyat Sabah (GRS) is signalling a rare show of political solidarity in the Ranau region, as Kundasang, Karanaan, and Paginatan move forward as a unified front ahead of the general election.
Addressing supporters at the “Untukmu Kundasang” (‘For Kundasang’) event on Monday, GRS Secretary-General Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun emphasised that the collaboration across constituencies marks a deliberate departure from traditional boundaries.
“We come from different parties, different state constituencies, but within GRS, we are one. That is why I am here. We support each other to win,” he said.
Masidi revealed that while he is contesting in Karanaan, he is actively supporting Datuk Seri Joachim Gunsalam in Kundasang and strengthening GRS’s operations in neighbouring Paginatan.
He described the coordinated effort as a “Tri-Dun Front,” aimed at demonstrating genuine unity among KDM leaders in GRS.
“This aligned approach is not merely a political strategy, it shows the people of Sabah that unity within the KDM leadership of GRS is real, not just rhetoric,” he added.
Highlighting the significance of cooperation across constituencies, Masidi stressed that progress in one area inevitably benefits neighbouring districts.
“What happens in one state constituency impacts another. That is why we must move together. When leaders collaborate, Ranau as a whole will advance,” he said.
He added a decisive GRS victory across the three KDM-majority seats would send a strong message across the state.
“If we can demonstrate this unity here, it sets an example to other regions that cooperation strengthens stability,” he said, expressing confidence in Joachim Gunsalam’s prospects.
“Yes, I believe he will win,” he said with a smile.
Beyond political alignment, Masidi has prioritised youth development through reskilling initiatives, aiming to equip young people with the skills needed to remain competitive in today’s demanding job market.
“The world has changed. Ten years ago, it was easy to find work, but now the job market is very competitive, so I want to emphasise reskilling so that our young people can enhance their employability,” he told Bernama.
The 74-year-old incumbent also stressed the importance of improving essential infrastructure, particularly roads connecting agricultural areas and remote villages in Karanaan.
“Roads are important for marketing agricultural produce because if products cannot reach the market, their efforts are wasted, and poverty will persist,” he said.
While agriculture remains a cornerstone of Ranau’s economy, Masidi pointed to untapped potential in tourism, including the development of high-quality products to attract high-spending visitors, particularly through increased homestay capacity and enhanced attractions in Kundasang and surrounding areas.
Masidi urged campaigners to respect local sensitivities and cultural norms. “The people of Ranau are gentle.
“We welcome all campaign workers, including those from Peninsular Malaysia, but they need to adapt to local culture. Relationships among the local religious communities are very cordial, and we must maintain that harmony,” he said.
He concluded with a reminder that political differences should not undermine communal unity., he said: “Campaign diligently, but remember in the end we are all Malaysians, people of Sabah.”
The Sabah Election is scheduled for this Saturday. - November 26, 2025
