Kota Kinabalu: Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) has announced its readiness to contest independently in the upcoming Sabah state election should the Pakatan Harapan (PH)-Barisan Nasional (BN) alliance proceed, focusing instead on partnerships with local parties sharing similar ideologies. GRS chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor emphasized the coalition's commitment to the belief that governance in Sabah should be driven by local parties familiar with the state's unique culture and needs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the potential PH-BN alliance was officially declared in a joint statement by PH secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and Unity Government Secretariat chief Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki. This development has prompted GRS to reaffirm its stance that local parties must form the backbone of the state government, ensuring that the aspirations of Sabah's populace are not overlooked.

Hajiji, who also serves as the Chief Minister of Sabah, underlined the importance of bolstering the current state government, as its stability is crucial to the strength of the federal Unity Government. He stated, "What GRS is fighting for is political stability and the well-being of the people, for the sake of Sabah's future. Ignoring local aspirations in the context of Sabah politics is inconsistent with grassroots sentiments."

GRS plans to hold a leadership meeting soon to outline its strategy for the upcoming election. Additionally, the coalition intends to engage in formal discussions with parties presently part of the state government to better understand their perspectives and positions on the matter.