KUALA LUMPUR – A state government led by local parties is not an obstacle to maintaining strong federal-state ties, said Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Assistant Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
Citing Sarawak as a model, Joniston — who also serves as Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Information Chief — said Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), a coalition comprising entirely local parties, continues to enjoy cordial and constructive relations with the federal government despite governing independently.
Speaking during the presentation of appointment letters to Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairmen in Kiulu, he said this demonstrates that GRS contesting the upcoming state election on its own is both feasible and principled.
“Even now, with GRS leading the state government, its working relationship with the federal administration has delivered tangible results.
“So, there should be no issue if GRS decides to contest solo. It is a move that aligns with the people’s aspirations, to see Sabah led by a locally grounded coalition while maintaining cohesive ties with Putrajaya,” he said.
He further noted that, much like GPS in Sarawak, GRS could emulate a governance model rooted in autonomy while maintaining stable cooperation with the federal government.
“We can look to Sarawak. Although PH is in opposition there, and BN holds no presence, GPS continues to work constructively with Putrajaya as part of the federal government.
“The Prime Minister and the Sarawak Premier meet regularly. This shows that political independence at the state level is not a hindrance, but in fact, a strength,” he stressed.
Joniston’s remarks come as GRS consolidates its position ahead of the looming state election, following recent developments involving Sabah PH and Barisan Nasional (BN).
GRS Chairman and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor had signalled that the coalition may contest independently, following the joint announcement by PH and BN of their intent to cooperate in the Sabah polls.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has since urged all three coalitions — PH, BN, and GRS — to work together for the sake of political stability and national development.
GRS has maintained its working relationship with PH at the state level, particularly after the coalition backed Hajiji during the political crisis in January 2023, when Umno and Warisan attempted to remove him from office. – May 14, 2025