KOTA KINABALU – While the current alliance ruling Sabah is already “crowded”, it is still open to the possibility of a collaboration with Warisan, Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor hinted today.
“We are open to discussions that are in Sabah’s best interests.
“However, it is important to note that the current government includes Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), Pakatan Harapan (PH), and Barisan Nasional (BN),” he said.
“Even within BN, there exist several parties, some of which support the current administration, while others do not.
“So, it's not just a simple ‘BN’ anymore.
“Nevertheless, we remain receptive to constructive suggestions that foster unity and benefit our people and state,” he said when met while attending the ground-breaking ceremony of the Kogopon Water Treatment Plant Phase II in Papar.
The chief minister’s response came in light of a recent statement by Datuk Yusof Apdal, the Lahad Datu MP from Warisan, issued on August 21, on a possible work-together for the people of Sabah.
The ruling alliance in Sabah comprises GRS components: Parti Gagasan Rakyat, Sabah Star, Parti Bersatu Sabah, United Sabah National Organisation, Sabah Harapan Rakyat and Liberal Democratic Party, as well as GRS direct members.
GRS also works with Pakatan Harapan, which is composed of Sabah’s PKR, DAP and Upko, while also working with Umno and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah in the state government.
Warisan president, Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, who is also Yusof’s older brother, had, however, earlier declared that Warisan will continue to operate as an opposition party in Sabah, despite being partners with GRS at the federal level.
Warisan has also been reported recently as initiating early talks with Sabah Umno for cooperation ahead of the Sabah elections scheduled for 2025. – The Vibes, August 25, 2023
