Kota Kinabalu: Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) is making a political resurgence in Sabah with the slogan “Make Sabah Great” as it prepares for the coming state election, said its Deputy President Datuk Hamzah Zainuddin.
He said the partys commitment proved the sceptics wrong, particularly those who declared the party defunct after the mass departure of its Sabah leaders in November 2022, which saw former Bersatu State Chief Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and several others leave the party.
They later became direct members of Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and ultimately took control of Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah, integrating it into the State’s ruling coalition.
Hamzah, who is also Perikatan Nasional (PN) Secretary-General, said Bersatu has been quietly reorganising its divisions in Sabah.
“This event, organised in just three days, was a way to gauge support, and we’ve demonstrated that Bersatu is still active, attracting members and non-members alike.
“Despite claims from GRS leaders that Bersatu no longer exists in Sabah, tonight’s turnout proves otherwise,” he said after launching the PN tour in Kota Kinabalu.
He is scheduled to visit other districts over the next two days.
Addressing criticisms about PN’s presence in Sabah, Hamzah said the coalition is well prepared for the coming state election.
“In the last election, we contested 18 seats and won 11, even with limited preparation. Now, after nearly five years of groundwork, our base in Sabah is strong,” he said, hinting that PN may contest all 18 seats.
“If you allow us to do so (contest 18 seats), why not?” he said.
Hamzah also questioned the emphasis on local-based parties, pointing out that several Sabah leaders are cooperating with national coalitions like Pakatan Harapan.
“If they prioritise local parties, why collaborate with PKR, DAP and others that are not local? Why is PN being singled out?” he said.
He confirmed PN’s plans to contest in Sabah, noting that preparations have been underway since 2020.
“We aren’t making grand promises, but we remain open to working with like-minded leaders who share our vision for Sabah.
“The ‘Make Sabah Great’ slogan is more than just words; it’s a commitment to real progress,” Hamzah said, hinting at informal discussions with local leaders while clarifying that no formal alliances have been finalised.
Also in attendance was Sabah Bersatu Chief Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee.
