Joniston presenting ICT equipments to Kg Nuluhon Baru JKKK chairman and local STAR leader Lodimon Balantis who received it on behalf St Nerry Roman Catholic Church
Joniston…the growing public sentiment clearly shows that Sabahans want the State to be led by strong and united local parties.
KIULU : – The aspiration for local parties to be dominant in governing Sabah has already been realised with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) at the helm, said GRS information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
He said as a coalition of local-based parties, GRS remains the best platform to lead the state and unite the people in the ongoing effort to defend Sabah’s rights and protect its interests.
“The people have long wanted to see local parties taking charge of Sabah’s direction, and that is now a reality under GRS,” he said during a handover ceremony of ICT equipment to Catholic churches in Mantob here, on Sunday.
Joniston, who is also Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) information chief and Kiulu assemblyman, said the growing public sentiment clearly shows that Sabahans want their state to be led by strong and united local parties.
“When PH decided to support Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor as Chief Minister, it showed they recognised the wishes of Sabahans that local parties should continue leading the state.
“This was different from Warisan and PKDM, who backed Umno to take charge of the state government… That’s the clear difference,” he said in referrence to the failed attempt, dubbed ‘Langkah Kinabalu’, to oust Hajiji led state government in Jan 2023.
Joniston added GRS remains relevant as a coalition that emphasises constructive partnership and respect among its component parties.
“In politics, differences will always exist. What matters is how we manage them with respect, with patience, and with focus on the people’s welfare,” he said.
He said cooperation among Sabah leaders allows for better coordination in addressing key issues such as rural development, infrastructure, and economic opportunities.
In the handing over ceremony, Joniston presented laptop and projector to four Catholic churches.
He said GRS remains attentive to the needs of all groups, including mission schools, Chinese private schools, and non-Muslim religious bodies.
This year alone, RM70 million has been allocated for these institutions, and RM90 million is set for next year, the highest amount ever showing the GRS Plus government’s commitment to inclusivity and fairness.
