Media statement
By Datuk Seri Panglima Shafie Apdal
President of Parti Warisan
30 Mac 2025
I must respond to the recent statement by the Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Haji Noor, who accused Warisan leaders of dragging the Istana Negeri into politics.
That accusation is not only unfair but is also misleading, especially coming from the state’s top leader.
It shows that the Chief Minister has missed the real issue.
Darell Leiking and Azis Jamman did not insult or attack the Istana.
They only raised honest questions about whether it makes sense to spend public money on a state celebration right now at a time when many Sabahans are struggling to put food on the table.
Let me be very clear that this is not an attack on the Istana.
It is a legitimate question about whether public funds are being spent in the best interest of the people.
Is it wrong to ask if that money could be better used for the people?
Public money must be spent wisely. Every ringgit must be justified.
In a democracy, asking questions about government spending is not wrong.
It is not only allowed but also necessary. It’s called check and balance.
If leaders can’t be questioned, especially about how they use public funds, then something is seriously wrong.
This is not about politics but about priorities. During hard times, leaders should lead by example.
When families are tightening their belts, the government should do the same.
Good leadership means making tough choices and putting people first instead of holding ceremonies just for show.
Right now, Sabahans are facing real problems with rising food prices, unemployment, floods, poor infrastructure, and not enough basic services.
These are the things that need urgent attention.
Warisan believes in responsible spending and transparency.
We hear leaders talking about saving money, but when it comes to government events, those rules don’t seem to apply.
That’s why we asked the question.
Darell and Azis have both been in government.
They know how these events work. Their questions were not personal or disrespectful but were part of a healthy democracy.
It is dangerous when any government starts calling every question “a lie” just because it comes from the opposition.
That’s not leadership. That’s insecurity. That’s trying to shut people up.
We call on the Chief Minister to focus on what truly matters.
Create jobs, repair bad roads, schools, hospitals, and ease the burden of everyday Sabahans.
Warisan will always fight for honesty, good governance, and the right of the people to ask questions even if it makes those in power uncomfortable.
That is what democracy is all about.
