TAWAU: All leaders and political camps are reminded not to incite any form of provocation carrying anti-Gagasan Persekutuan Malaysia (GPM) sentiments – i.e. against the formation of Malaysia – as such actions could threaten national sovereignty and public order.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said they must prioritise national unity and avoid issuing hate-driven political statements that fuel anti-GPM narratives.
“Why claim to love Sabah but attempt to damage the GPM? Malaysia belongs to all of us, whether we are from Sabah, Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Sarawak or elsewhere,” he said, at a press conference held in conjunction with the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) Zone Tawau Family Day Carnival at the Parade Ground of Kem Kubota, 7th Battalion Royal Malay Regiment (RAMD), Sunday.
“GPM was established with the support of Sabah, as with all other states. The Federation also belongs to Sabah, and therefore it is only right to maintain good relations so that development plans for Sabah can be supported and carried out together,” he said.
He said the new Sabah Government to be formed after the 17th Sabah State Election (17th SE) must be capable of governing effectively and improving the people’s well-being.
Such a government, he added, must also maintain a strong relationship with the Federal Government to ensure Sabah’s development proceeds smoothly.
Khaled said military personnel should also reflect carefully on whether individuals promoting anti-GPM sentiments are worthy of support, noting that such groups may pose challenges to the Armed Forces in carrying out their duties.
“I remind all military personnel to pay close attention, especially if there are parties who do not appreciate the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) or who incite hatred towards the GPM,” he said.
On strengthening national defence, Khaled said the focus is not only on ATM’s preparedness but also on the welfare of its personnel.
“Members of the Armed Forces are also citizens and voters who deserve to see a strong government that supports our efforts to safeguard national security.
“A government entrusted with responsibility must be able to govern, develop and advance the nation and its people. If the country is not well managed, it will not prosper and this will create security challenges,” he said.
On the Philippines’ claim over Sabah, Khaled said the Defence Ministry remains vigilant, noting that the Philippines has yet to amend its constitution, which still lists Sabah as part of its territory.
