PAPAR – In a passionate address that resonated with decades of political experience, former Sabah Chief Minister Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan has reinforced his longstanding conviction that only homegrown political parties can truly safeguard the state's interests.
Speaking at the Limbahau PBS annual general meeting in Kampung Sungkadon-Novoung, the revered Huguan Siou (paramount leader) of the Kadazan Dusun Murut community delivered a stark message about Sabah's political future.
A Call for Authentic Sabah Leadership
Pairin, who led Sabah from 1985 to 1994, emphasized that development agendas set by Peninsula-based coalitions often fail to address Sabah's distinct needs.
"When dominance comes from Semenanjung, our priorities become an afterthought," he stated bluntly, drawing applause from attendees including Datuk Johnny Mositun, Datuk Seri Radin Malleh, and other senior PBS figures.
His remarks come as Sabah prepares for its 17th State Election, with political observers anticipating a heated contest between local parties and national coalitions.
Unfinished Business of MA63
The veteran statesman highlighted how six decades after Malaysia's formation, key promises under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) remain unfulfilled.
"After 60 years, why are we still fighting for what was rightfully ours?" Pairin questioned, his voice echoing the frustration of many Sabahans over unresolved autonomy issues.
This sentiment fuels the growing "Sabah for Sabahans" movement, which Pairin endorsed as "not just a slogan, but a necessary principle for our survival."
Why Local Parties Matter
Pairin's argument rests on three pillars:
- Cultural Understanding: Local leaders better grasp Sabah's multi-ethnic dynamics
- Development Focus: Homegrown parties prioritize infrastructure suited to Sabah's terrain
- Autonomy Protection: Only Sabah-based parties consistently champion MA63 rights
His stance aligns with current trends – the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition's state government has recently secured concessions from Putrajaya on issues like the Carbon Capture Act, demonstrating what local leadership can achieve.
The Limbahau Gathering
The AGM saw strong turnout from PBS grassroots, signaling enduring support for the party Pairin founded in 1985. Former Buang Sayang assemblyman Datuk Claudius Sundang Alex and divisional leaders joined discussions on strengthening the party's base ahead of elections.
A Warning from History
Pairin's speech carried the weight of personal experience – his PBS government's clashes with federal authorities in the 1980s-90s serve as a cautionary tale about power imbalances.
"We've seen what happens when Sabah's voice is diluted," he implied, referencing past administrations where national party dominance allegedly sidelined state interests.
The Road Ahead
As the crowd dispersed, the message was clear:
- The coming election will test Sabahans' appetite for self-determination
- PBS aims to position itself as the authentic local alternative
- MA63 implementation remains the litmus test for any government
"The choice is ours to make," Pairin concluded, "but remember – no one will fight for Sabah like Sabahans themselves."