KOTA KINABALU – Sabah BN must not follow the unstable rhythm of politics in Putrajaya but must stand firm in defending the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) as the government that was chosen by the people of Sabah, said state Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.
The deputy chief minister said he understands the challenges Sabah BN is facing, but Sabah cannot afford to have yet another election as its last one was less than two years ago (in September 2020).
“We must see it in the context of Sabah; we must defend GRS no matter what because we want to avoid a state election. The people would be mad at us if that happens,” he said, suggesting that Sabah BN cannot break ties with Sabah Bersatu.
Bung Moktar said this to Sabah BN leaders at the annual BN mandarin orange distribution programme held here in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration today.
He also said that Sabah BN may have a heavy responsibility in becoming part of BN’s machinery in the coming Johor election.
“I think we are going to be entrusted (to help in campaigning) for three (Johor) seats, and that is a heavy responsibility because there are a lot of voters,” he said.
“We will also be meeting young voters for the first time in this state election, aged 18, 19 and 20, whom we have never met before. Surely, it is going to be challenging."
Bung Moktar said all parties would surely hope to lead the Johor government, but it will all come down to the people and who they want to govern the administration.
“Our rakyat are already very experienced as they have been through several governments already. Surely, they now know who will best govern their state,” he added.
Meanwhile, Bung Moktar said Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is expected to come to Sabah to meet with Sabah BN and Sabah Umno leaders, and launch the Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah’s annual general conference next month.
On what will be discussed during Zahid’s visit, Bung Moktar said: “We will have to wait and see.” –The Vibes, January 29, 2022