Kota kinabalu: Political stability is essential for the Sabah state government to focus on development, economic prosperity, and infrastructure, said Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Sabah Chief Minister emphasized that unity and close cooperation among GRS component parties are crucial to keeping Sabah on a path of progress and prosperity, despite differences in their backgrounds and political foundations. Hajiji highlighted the importance of standing together under the GRS coalition, working towards a common goal for the state's advancement.

"As partners in GRS, we may have different backgrounds and political foundations, but as components of GRS, we stand under the same roof, share the same sky and, more importantly, work for the same Sabah," Hajiji stated at the 32nd United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) anniversary celebration and the opening of the party's 17th Triennial Delegates Conference. The event was attended by UPKO president Datuk Ewon Benedick, who also serves as Sabah Deputy Chief Minister III and Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transportation.

Hajiji acknowledged UPKO's involvement in GRS as a significant factor in bolstering political stability in the state. He urged all UPKO leaders and members to continue working together to achieve the vision of "Sabah First, Sabah United, Sabah Forward, and Sabah Prosper," emphasizing the need for collaboration among local parties.

The coalition's expansion was marked by UPKO's acceptance as a new member on June 18, making GRS consist of six component parties, including Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah, Parti Bersatu Sabah, Liberal Democratic Party, Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah, and Parti Cinta Sabah.