Kota Kinabalu: Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) leaders have maintained that the coalition remains stable following the United Sabah National Organisation (Usno)’s exit, while expressing respect for the party’s decision.
Sabah Finance Minister and GRS Sec-Gen Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said political developments are part of a fluid and dynamic landscape.
He said although GRS had hoped Usno would remain, the coalition respects the party’s move to leave.
“We hoped they would stay, but we respect their decision. What is important is that we part as friends, not as enemies,” Masidi said.
He stressed that such changes are normal, adding that GRS continues to stand firm.
“People will come and go...there are already new applications from other political parties to join the coalition,” he added.
Usno, led by its president Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia, recently announced its withdrawal from GRS, citing differences in direction.
Meanwhile, Sabah Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said the coalition remains focused on its core mission despite the development.
“We respect their decision and understand the reasons given. This is something normal in politics,” said Joniston, who is also GRS Information Chief.
He emphasised that the coalition’s priorities remain unchanged.
“We will continue our agenda and focus on uniting the people of Sabah, regardless of race and religion. That is our main priority for stability and prosperity,” he said.
Joniston added that GRS would not be distracted by the exit.
“We will not lose our focus. Our direction remains the same,” he said.
