Kota belud: Unity among Sabah’s local political parties is essential for lasting stability and continued development in the state, said acting President of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam. Dr Joachim, who is also Sabah’s Deputy Chief Minister II, stressed that even the best candidates cannot succeed without teamwork and cooperation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Joachim emphasized the importance of credibility, responsibility, and coordinated effort as the keys to political success. He highlighted that candidates must work as a unified team within Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) to ensure progress. “Solidarity and unity are the foundation of progress. We must work together for a better future for the state,” he stated in a recent statement.
Dr Joachim launched the PBS election machinery for the Kadamaian state constituency in Kota Belud, an event also attended by PBS secretary-general Datuk Julita Majungki and vice-president cum Youth chief Datuk Dr Christopher Mandut. Formed nearly four years ago, GRS unifies PBS with several other parties, including Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat), United Sabah National Organisation (USNO), Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah (Harapan Rakyat), Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), and Parti Cinta Sabah (PCS).
The coalition, Dr Joachim noted, has not only bolstered political influence but also enhanced cooperation in state development. He added that political conflict is unproductive, whereas stability and unity among local parties are crucial for attracting investors, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring that state resources benefit the people.
“Our goal is to stabilize politics, attract foreign investors, and boost state revenue. We’ve doubled Sabah’s income from under RM4 billion to nearly RM8 billion, with reserves now at RM8.6 billion,” he remarked. GRS-led initiatives, such as the Rumah Mesra SMJ housing programme and educational support, reflect the coalition’s commitment to human capital development and youth employment.
GRS is dedicated to building a skilled workforce to attract investors and create quality jobs. Dr Joachim noted that “without trained manpower, investment growth will be limited.” As one of Sabah’s oldest and most active parties with over 40 years of struggle, PBS remains committed to the state’s progress and the welfare of its people.
Dr Joachim reiterated that PBS’s mission continues to focus on defending the rights of Sabahans, improving infrastructure such as schools and health clinics, and ensuring inclusive development for all communities.