Shafie Afdal…This election is the moment for us, the people of Sabah, to make a difference; it is a turning point for us.
KOTA KINABALU: Warisan president Datuk Seri Panglima Mohd Shafie Apdal emphasised that the people of Sabah have the opportunity to initiate significant political change in the state during the forthcoming state election (PRN).
He pointed out that there were no external parties in Sabah at the time of Malaysia’s formation.
“In the past, Parti Berjaya successfully governed for nearly a decade, and PBS also ruled independently for almost ten years. There is no reason why Warisan cannot achieve the same if the people unite for change.
“This election is the moment for us, the people of Sabah, to make a difference; it is a turning point for us,” he stated during a New Year celebration in Sandakan.
The former Chief Minister expressed Warisan’s rejection of any attempts to expand extremist politics in Sabah.
“In Sabah, we have a diverse population. If I were to follow a Malay-based political agenda, I could remain in UMNO, and if I wanted to pursue a religious-based politics, I could join PAS.
“However, I chose to establish Warisan as a multi-ethnic party for the people of Sabah who value harmony and moderation,” he explained.
Shafie assured that if Warisan receives the people’s mandate, the party will strive to govern the state effectively.
“During the two years Warisan was in power, we achieved several reforms, including the establishment of the Ministries of Education and Health.
“We also successfully implemented a sales tax on oil (Petronas), contributing over RM1 billion to the state of Sabah, which is currently enjoyed by the GRS government,” he added.
Shafie noted that after four years under the GRS government led by Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, the people’s lives have become increasingly difficult.
“Prices of goods have risen… water supply is inconsistent, and electricity supply is also unreliable. How can we encourage investment when we lack sufficient water and electricity?” he questioned.
He stated that as soon as Warisan comes to power, “we will work on constructing dams at the Segama River (Lahad Datu) and also at the Kinabatangan River (if feasible),” he said.
Mohd Shafie emphasized that the party is also committed to reinstating the Ministry of Education and Health in the state.
Regarding health, if Warisan establishes the Sabah government, he mentioned that the state government would collaborate with Chinese and Indian entrepreneurs to produce generic pharmaceuticals in Sabah, thereby creating job opportunities for the local population.
In this context, Mohd Shafie urged the people of Sabah, including the Chinese community, to provide strong support to Warisan in the upcoming state elections for a better future.
