TUARAN (Oct 9): Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri (Anak Negeri) fully supports the bold and principled decision of STAR Sabah and Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) to withdraw from Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS).
Its secretary-general, Trevor Maringking, said this move is not merely political but represents a defining moment — one that reflects the growing sentiment that Sabah’s destiny must be determined by Sabahans themselves, free from the shifting interests of Malayan-based coalitions.
He said Anak Negeri acknowledges critics who question STAR’s credibility, past alliances, and performance in government. These are valid concerns that deserve honest answers. However, to dismiss STAR and SAPP’s exit from GRS as a sign of instability is to overlook the bigger picture: for too long, Sabah’s politics have been shaped by federal intervention and external dominance, he said in a statement here today.
Trevor added this moment presents a rare opportunity to reset the course — to unite under a truly Sabah for Sabahans coalition capable of forming a government that speaks with one voice, much like Sarawak.
“We therefore call upon all local-based parties — regardless of past differences — to unite under a new local-based front led by Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. Such unity can ensure straight fights in every constituency, prevent vote-splitting, and offer Sabahans a genuine alternative to federal-controlled coalitions or covert arrangements seeking to return Sabah under outside influence.
“This is no ordinary election. It is a test of sincerity and courage. Do we truly believe in ‘Sabah for Sabahans,’ or will we again surrender our political direction to interests across the sea?”
According to Trevor, a united local-based coalition must be guided by four key commitments:
1. Utilise state resources solely for the people of Sabah, ensuring that no community is left behind;
2. Empower Sabah’s young generation, our greatest asset and the key to unlocking Sabah’s future;
3. Continue the struggle for Sabah’s rights under MA63 until justice and fairness are achieved; and
4. Uphold integrity, transparency, and good governance in all aspects of public administration.
Trevor said that this election is about courage — the courage to resist external pressures, to put Sabah first, and to stay true to the belief that Sabah’s future must rest in the hands of Sabahans.
“Anak Negeri views STAR and SAPP’s departure from GRS as a moment of reckoning and renewal. We stand ready to work with STAR, SAPP, and all like-minded local-based parties who share the same vision — Justice for Sabah, Unity for Sabahans, and Dignity for future generations.
What matters now is sincerity, unity, and delivery. If these are demonstrated, Sabahans will rally strongly behind a government led by a Sabah for Sabahans coalition that is free from external influence and committed solely to the interests of the state,” he added.
As appeared on The Borneo Post - http://theborneopost.com/2025/10/09/anak-negeri-backs-star-and-sapps-exit-from-grs-calls-for-united-sabah-for-sabahans-front/
