PENAMPANG: Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (Star) President Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan did not rule out potential collaboration between Star, PBS and Warisan, saying “in politics anything can happen”.
“We do not rule out any possibilities, even at the last minute. However, I hope it does not come to that, as what is happening now is provocation, propaganda and a plan to weaken our unity in GRS. So, it is not surprising,” he said. Gabungan Rakyat Sabah is the State Government coalition, of which Star is a member.
PBS had already said it was not interested in collaborating with Warisan, which is in the opposition at state-level.
Jeffrey also said he is confident contesting using the GRS logo. “When we use a logo, we must believe in it to effectively use it.”
He was, however, tight-lipped about the number of seats Parti Star would be requesting from GRS, except that the matter had been discussed with PBS.
“We are looking at various options and possibilities in areas where we can win. It is pointless to claim a seat if we have no chance of winning. So, our plan is to identify those areas we can win and claim them. We are working on that.”
Jeffrey, who is a Deputy Chief Minister, said he is optimistic about the current Madani Federal Government’s commitment to fulling the Malaysia Agreement 1963 promises.
“For us to get what is promised, we need to be united in voicing our demands,” he said.
He acknowledged recent achievements such as gazetting of Sabah Day on August 31 where Sabah gained self-government status before the formation of Malaysia two weeks later on Sept. 16, 1963.
Something never mentioned in school history books until today.
He also noted that many issues remain unresolved, including the 40 per cent revenue entitlement for Sabah.
He called for a more assertive approach in demanding Sabah’s rights, drawing comparisons with Sarawak’s vocal stance.
He proposed establishing a NGO called “Pergerakan Rakyat Sabah” to further the party’s reach beyond its traditional membership.
He said the party’s strength lies in its volunteers who join the party out of conviction than for financial gain or positions.
“Our sustainability is based on the belief that we are the people who can do something. We cannot rely on other people to do it for us,” he told a media conference after officiating the party’s Moyog constituency new office.
“Most of our members are volunteers. They join the party to fight for something, like our rights, not for money or positions,” he said.
“I try to instil confidence that money is not everything. I know some members are vulnerable and may switch for money, but eventually, they settle down to fight for the struggle,” he said.
On the chances of Parti Star giving up the Moyog seat to GRS, he said for any seat they have to consider the winning potential and explore options.
“There are areas where we can switch seats, we are not limited to just one option,” he said.
