SANDAKAN: Sabahans are becoming increasingly mature and now demand tangible results instead of mere political rhetoric, said Karamunting Assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin.
“In the past, local parties were often pressured by parties from Peninsular Malaysia, and we merely became ‘yes men’. But the people are tired of that. They want development, job opportunities and stability,” he said at the Karamunting Gagasan Rakyat Division’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Hotel Sanbay here Monday.
The AGM, which gathered nearly 400 members, also saw the addition of 10 new branches, bringing the total number in the division to 80.
Gagasan Rakyat Vice President Datuk Masiung Banah officiated the meeting. Also present were leaders from allied parties, including Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong Shir Yee (DAP), Karamunting PBS Division Chief David Fong, as well as representatives from the Sekong Gagasan Rakyat Division.
Hiew said since the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition took over the State administration, various advancements have been achieved, particularly in the oil and gas sector, including the Esteel investment project recently announced.
“We’ve never seen a Prime Minister visit Sabah almost every month like now. I believe that through this strong cooperation, we will achieve both development and prosperity,” he added.
Hiew also stressed that Sabah should take a cue from Sarawak in maintaining political stability and fostering close ties with the Federal Government for the benefit of the people.
“Sabah has changed governments too frequently. That’s why we are lagging behind Sarawak. But based on our past experience and the example set by Sarawak, I’m confident Sabah’s future will be brighter in terms of both economic growth and political stability,” he said.
He emphasised that government stability is the foundation of all progress envisioned by the people of Sabah.
“We must maintain the current momentum. If we keep changing governments, development will never reach us. We can no longer afford to take such risks,” he said.
Hiew also reminded party machinery to fully prepare for the upcoming State Election (PRN) by reaching out to the grassroots and understanding the issues affecting them.
“Right now, we need to work hard, go to every area, listen and understand the people’s problems,” he said.
He also called on all Gagasan Rakyat members and the people of Sabah to unite in strengthening the State’s direction, ensuring continuity of policies that will benefit future generations.
