Datuk James Ligunjang, “In order for Sabah to achieve its autonomy and independence, it is crucial for Sabahans to exclusively elect local parties in the next State Elections.”
KOTA KINABALU: Sabahans right to determine their own future has been compromised by the dominance of political parties from the Federation of Malaya.
Former State Assemblyman for Petagas, Datuk James Ligunjang said dominance of non-local parties was hindering the state’s progress and development.
“To restore Sabah’s autonomy and protect its rights, it is essential for Sabahans to elect local parties who prioritise the state’s interests, ” he said in his social media latest posting.
Ligunjang pointed out over the past 50 years, the control exerted by parties from the Federation of Malaya has resulted in indirect colonialism, stripping Sabah of its ability to govern itself independently.
“The state’s abundant natural resources have failed to uplift its people, as Sabah remains the poorest state in Malaysia.”
“This situation is no longer tenable and acceptable. It must be stopped!,” he added .
To safeguard Sabah’s rights and privileges as enshrined in various agreements and the Federal Constitution, it is crucial for Sabahans to support local parties in taking over the governance of the state.
By electing representatives who deeply understand Sabah’s unique challenges and aspirations, we can steer the state towards progress and eradicate the influence and interference of external parties.
Ligunjang, who is also a Justice of Peace, said through true autonomy, Sabah can chart its own path towards prosperity and development.
“At this critical juncture of Sabah’s history, it is vital for local political parties in Sabah to unite and collaborate instead of competing against each other.”
“Only by forming a strong front can we challenge the dominance of Malayan parties and truly achieve autonomy,” he said.
He added,” We must not allow ourselves to remain subservient to external agendas any longer – our autonomy and future depend on it.”
“To our political leaders it is time for Sabah to chart its own path, rooted in Malaysia Agreement 1963, the wisdom of our people and the richness of our land.”
“It will be sad and shameful when we are pushed to choose, we rather choose to take care of ourselves but not the state and the people we serve.”
“Let us come together and ensure the success of Sabah by using our votes to support candidates from local parties. By doing so, we can save Sabah’s future and pave the way for a self-governing state that is prosperous, independent, and able to determine its own destiny, ” Ligunjang said.
