Kota Kinabalu: The Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah (FCAS) welcomed and supported the passing of the Anti-Party Hopping Bill by the State Legislative Assembly on Thursday.
Its President Tan Sri TC Goh hoped it would effectively end the infamous party-hopping culture among elected representatives in the State and bring political stability and development.
“This (passing of the Anti-Hopping Bill) is historical and significant for the people of Sabah,” he said in a statement, Friday.
He acknowledged that the party-hopping culture among the elected representatives has troubled political parties and brought uncertainty to the State all these years.
Hence, the passing of the Bill was necessary to put an end to the unhealthy trend, he said.
Goh, who is also the President of the Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong), said it was truly a long-awaited moment for the people of Sabah.
“With the said Bill coming into effect, the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) Government led by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor will be able to work closely with the Unity Government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to better develop Sabah in all fronts,” he said.
Goh, who is also a member of the Sabah Economic Advisory Council (SEAC), said:
“Just like what the Chief Minister has said, there should be no more worries about elected representatives hopping parties.
The amendment of the Bill was indeed timely and very much in line with the Anti-Party Hopping Law of the Federal Government.”
He was also convinced that the passing of the said Bill would boost the State Government’s morale and confidence to bring greater development for Sabah.
He opined that if there is any flaw or shortcoming in the said Bill, it can be further discussed and improved.
“What really matters in to get the Bill passed, so that it would effectively stop the elected representatives from switching parties and to better improve our democratic system.”
