Mustapha…highlighting issues close to the hearts of Sabahans.
KOTA KINABALU : – Pakatan Harapan (PH) component parties in Sabah will be releasing a joint manifesto ahead of the upcoming state election, said Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Sabah chief Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud.
He said PKR is currently drafting its manifesto, which will be unveiled alongside those of the other three Sabah PH components — United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko), National Trust Party (Amanah) and Democratic Action Party (DAP).
“The manifesto will highlight issues close to the hearts of Sabahans, particularly the state’s 40 percent revenue entitlement under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63),” said Mustapha.
He added that PKR will also propose a guideline formula to ensure fair distribution of key positions, such as village heads and appointments in government-linked companies (GLCs), based on each party’s strength within the coalition.
“This is to prevent dissatisfaction and to ensure equitable representation,” he told reporters on Saturday.
He added that the proposed appointment system would be included in the joint manifesto.
On a separate note, Mustapha expressed confidence in the continued strong support for PKR president and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, especially in Sabah, where Anwar enjoys a high approval rating.
Addressing recent internal criticisms, particularly regarding the appointment of Nurul Izzah Anwar as PKR deputy president, Mustapha acknowledged the dissatisfaction voiced by some quarters.
“Some may not be happy with the party elections, but as a leader, I believe our members are beginning to understand that the focus should be on the party’s direction and unity— not individuals,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mustapha who is Deputy Higher Education Minister, said the government remains committed to supporting students from low-income (B40) families in their pursuit of higher education.
He said the assistance is provided based on verified data from the eKasih system or recipients of the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) initiative.