Dato’ Jismith Haji Japong handing over his application form to Datuk Henrynus Amin, President of Parti Kerjasama Anak2 Negeri.
KOTA KINABALU : – Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri (ANAK NEGERI) yesterday announced a major boost to its ranks with the entry of seasoned political figure, Dato’ Jismith Haji Japong. Dato’ Jismit joined the party as an ordinary member and was immediately appointed as the party’s new Election Director.
Dato’ Jismith, who was previously associated with Parti Gemilang Anak Sabah (GAS), officially handed over his membership form and pledged his full support and allegiance to the political vision of Parti ANAK NEGERI during a meeting held at the Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu.
Prior to handing over his membership form, Dato’ Jismith and Parti ANAK NEGERI President Datuk Henrynus Amin signed a collaborative agreement where Jismit’s supporters from all over Sabah, under an informal group called Gemilang Sabah, will join Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri en masse.
He was accompanied by approximately 40 core supporters at the meeting, all of whom are expected to join the party, further boosting its grassroots support.
Dato’ Jismit is widely tipped to be the party’s candidate for the Klias state seat.
A Momentous Event for Party Growth
Parti ANAK NEGERI President, Datuk Henrynus Amin, welcomed Dato’ Jismit and his supporters, calling the decision a “momentous event” for the party.
“Dato’ Jismit’s decision to join Parti ANAK NEGERI brings tremendous value. He is not only contributing new members, but also many potential candidates, not to mention his personal resources and organizational ability in support of the party’s mission,” said Datuk Henrynus.
“His existing network and resources, combined with our existing leadership and supporters, will undoubtedly strengthen the party’s organization and manpower significantly as we head into the state election.”
As the newly appointed Election Director, Dato’ Jismit will be responsible for the overall election preparation and machinery deployment across Sabah.
PKAN Set to Contest 55 State Seats Datuk Henrynus reaffirmed the party’s commitment to contest in 55 state seats or more across Sabah, adding that most of the candidates have already been identified.
Addressing critics who label the party a “small fry,” Datuk Henrynus stated that the party is not intimidated by negative comments and is ready to face the polls with a strong lineup.
The party’s list of candidates will feature a blend of experienced seniors (above 50) and dynamic youths (below 50), with a strong commitment to gender empowerment: at least 30% of candidates will be women.
Datuk Henrynus concluded by outlining the five core agenda guiding Parti ANAK NEGERI’s political action:
Rights & Dignity:
To fight for the rights, dignity, and interest of the people of Sabah, especially the indigenous community facing existential threats due to shifting political demography.
State Financial Rights:
To fight for state rights within the Federal system, particularly financial rights as provided for by the Malaysia Agreement, IGC Report, and the Federal Constitution.
Security & Sovereignty:
To ensure Federal obligations on the security and sovereignty of Sabah, especially resolving issues related to the presence of more than a million non-citizens.
Economic Development:
To build Sabah’s economy and resolve rural poverty and youth unemployment in the state.
Religious Harmony:
To protect and preserve religious harmony by ensuring the freedom of religion in Sabah.
He said these are the guiding principles in the preparation of the party’s ejection manifesto to be announced on 26 October 2025 in Ranau.