[UPDATED] Jeffrey says open to idea of new DPM coming from E. M’sia

KOTA KINABALU – Sabah’s Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan has welcomed the idea that the new deputy prime minister could be from East Malaysia, while hoping that the current political turmoil will end.

“I’m open to the idea of the number two post given to the leaders either from Sabah and Sarawak. It doesn’t matter to me. But most likely Sarawak because they have voiced for it.”

He said now the political turmoil at the federal level has almost come to an end, the new prime minister and cabinet must focus on ending the pandemic and economic problems, as well as the fulfilment of the state rights of Sabah and Sarawak. 

“I hope there will be no more power struggle again until the next election is held,” said Jeffrey, adding that he has given his support to Prime Minister Datuk Ismail Sabri Yaakob. 

Meanwhile, he added that it is common for Sabah politics to be affected each time a federal crisis arises. 

“We hope the political turmoil in West Malaysia will not spread to Sabah. I believe and am confident the politics in Sabah is stable.

“Usually when there’s a change at the federal level, it will trickle down to the states. This is the reason we voted for Ismail Sabri, so it does not change the status quo.”

He said leaders from the ruling Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) are constantly in discussion to ensure there will be no such turmoil in the state.

He added he is confident that Sabah Umno will not stage a similar move like what the party did at the national level.

He said he was in constant contact with Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, who continues to maintain his stand supporting GRS. – The Vibes, August 20, 2021