PBS open to collaboration with federal govt – Maximus
TAWAU: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) is open to collaboration and fruitful working relations, especially with the federal government.
In wishing Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) all the best following the recent announcement of its impending entry to Sabah, PBS President Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili said that while their stand has always been to promote local based party, there was nothing wrong for other parties to spread its wings here.
“In this democratic country, anyone can set up a party or a branch that is allowed by the ROS (Registrar of Societies).
“(And) In the case of Sabah, PBS' stand has always been to promote local based party, but in the interest of the people's unity and to be able to operate within the federal system, we will consider working closely with the federal government,” he said at the PBS Tawau Chinese New Year Luncheon here yesterday.
He, however, said that PBS still believe that a multiracial party is still the best option, where all races are accommodated, while moderation and tolerance can be cultivated as a basis for unity and the real practice.
“PBS, even though forced to be in the opposition due to the leapfrogging of UPKO, we were always opened to the political cooperation among like-minded parties, those who share similar ideals and put unity of the people as priority, as well as fighting for the safety of Sabah within federation, and of course protection of the State's rights as enshrined in MA63 (Malaysia Agreement 1963),” he said.
Maximus however expressed hope that PPBM's entry will not split the people, but rather promote spirit of togetherness and protection of the state rights.
He said PBS' struggles are well known, especially in protecting Sabah's rights, its security and pursuing better development to be at par with the Peninsular's progress.
“Today, our supporters remain strong. Our members have not moved at all, and in fact they have grown stronger in the last 10 months.
“It is up to the Sabah people to respond, or not, to the (PPBM's) entry. We only hope that they will not divide the Sabah people further and lead to importation of the Malaya's political style and concept,” said Maximus, who is also the Kota Marudu Member of Parliament.