PAPAR: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Founding President Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan has called for greater unity within Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and continued commitment to defending Sabah’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) to safeguard the state’s future.
He stressed the importance of political stability, strong cooperation among GRS component parties and the continued struggle to secure Sabah’s constitutional rights.
He said this when officiating the 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of PBS N.27 Limbahau Division at Dewan Serbaguna Mositun, Kampung Sungkadon Novoung, recently.
The AGM, attended by party members, grassroots leaders, Youth and Women’s Wing representatives, concluded with a strong display of unity and confidence in the party leadership.
A key highlight of the meeting was the division’s endorsement of Deputy Chief Minister I and PBS Acting President Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam as the party’s next President in the upcoming party election.
Delegates described the move as a step towards strengthening PBS and enhancing its ability to serve the people more effectively.
Pairin also supported a call by PBS Limbahau Division Chief Datuk Johnny Mositun for Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali to continue serving as the GRS candidate for the Papar parliamentary seat in the next General Election.
He described Armizan as a capable and experienced leader who has made significant contributions to the development of Papar and Sabah through his role in the Federal Government.
“Continuity and stability are important to ensure ongoing development and effective representation for the people,” he said.
Pairin emphasised that the interests of the rakyat must remain the highest priority and that close cooperation among leaders within GRS was crucial in strengthening Sabah’s voice at both state and federal levels.
The AGM also saw the successful completion of meetings for the division, Youth Wing and Women’s Wing, all of which returned their respective leaders unopposed for a new term.
Johnny was retained as PBS N.27 Limbahau Division chief, while Steve Johnny Mositun and Janet Baidin were returned as Youth Chief and Women’s Chief respectively.
In his keynote address, Johnny called for greater fairness, transparency and consultation in the appointment of grassroots leaders and political representatives.
He urged the relevant authorities to ensure appointments involving Native Court personnel, Village Development and Security Committee (JPKK) chairpersons, village chiefs, village development committees and other political positions are carried out in a transparent and inclusive manner, with proper consultation involving divisional leadership.
“Grassroots leaders are the frontliners who interact directly with the people every day. Any appointment process must be fair, transparent and respectful of the views of divisional leaders who understand the needs and aspirations of local communities,” he said.
Johnny also reaffirmed PBS Limbahau’s commitment to continue defending Sabah’s rights under MA63 while ensuring development reaches every village and community.
Meanwhile, Steve said youth and women would play a decisive role in shaping Sabah’s future political landscape.
He said the younger generation must be equipped with political awareness, leadership skills and a strong understanding of Sabah’s constitutional rights to ensure the struggle for Sabah’s interests continues.
“The future of Sabah lies in the hands of our youth and women. They are not merely supporters of development but partners in leadership.
“Political stability is crucial if we are to continue fighting for MA63, strengthen Sabah’s position within the Federation, create more opportunities for our people and build a prosperous future for the next generation,” he said.
Janet, meanwhile, encouraged more women to step forward and contribute to leadership, community development and grassroots mobilisation, describing women as a vital pillar in strengthening the party and serving society.
The AGM concluded with delegates unanimously reaffirming their commitment to strengthen PBS, support the GRS government, defend Sabah’s rights under MA63 and continue working towards the wellbeing, unity and prosperity of the people of Limbahau, Papar and Sabah as a whole.
