PBS’ 34th anniversary to be held at birthplace
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s oldest surviving local political party, Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), will celebrate its 34th anniversary today.
The interior district of Tambunan, widely known as the birthplace of PBS, and also the hometown of its founding President Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan will play host to the celebration.
PBS Secretary-General Datuk Jahid Jahim, who is also the organising committee chairman, said this is the first time that the party’s anniversary do is held outside Kota Kinabalu.
The decision to hold the celebration outside of the State Capital was in line with the party’s aggressive “turun padang” effort as part of its rejuvenation initiative.
“PBS was formed out of the desire and aspiration of the people who clamour for justice on issues pertaining to their rights and that of the State, and Tambunan was where it all began,” Jahid said.
The formation of PBS was mooted in 1985 when Pairin was forced out as Tambunan Assemblyman by the then ruling Parti Berjaya due to his vocal stance on various issues related to the interest of the people and the State.
Backed by the “people’s power”, Pairin retained the Tambunan State seat against the might of Berjaya in a by-election that year which prompted the Harris Sallehled Parti Berjaya to retaliate by abrogating the district status of Tambunan.
It is important for the people, especially the younger generation, to know the history of the formation of PBS, hence the decision to hold the anniversary celebration in Tambunan.
Tambunan is also the hometown of Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili who took over the party’s presidency from Pairin last year.
Among the activities held to mark the celebration are meetings, seminars, golf and a football match.
“The party’s 34 years journey will also be reflected in a video presentation to be showcased during our anniversary dinner on Wednesday evening,” said Jahid.
He added that after 34 years, PBS is still passionate in fighting for the party struggles, especially those enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), for the good of Sabah and Sabahans.
“Although PBS is a matured party, we believe that our goals and objectives encompass all age groups.
“We are also vigorously doing our membership drive to bring in new blood into the party. They are the party’s future leaders,” said Jahid.
Over 700 members, including the Supreme Council members, Women and Youth wings from across Sabah are expected to attend the event.