PBS wants more young members to freshen up party

KOTA KINABALU: Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), the oldest local political party in Sabah which is celebrating its 39th anniversary, wants more young members to freshen up the party.

PBS president Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Johnity Ongkili said while the party’s journey over nearly four decades has been remarkable, more efforts are needed to regain their glory days and improve its performance in future elections.

“As the saying goes, there is room for improvement and we cannot be complacent.

“The reality is we only have seven state seats and one parliamentary seat.

“We may be the oldest state party but we prioritise new ideas. So with the experience and proven political achievements and administration records, we would like to welcome all young blood into the party.

“We must actively promote the party and I believe in the coming elections, we would not have a problem gaining the support of those as young as 18,” Ongkili said on Tuesday (March 5).

His speech was read out by PBS deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

Also in attendance was PBS premier advisor Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan.

Ongkili said PBS has emerged as part of the backbone for positive developments in Sabah but would face challenges of new parties mushrooming during election season.

“Our way forward is to strengthen our party with a pool of young party leaders who will take over.

“The perception that only a matured persona is capable of becoming a leader is one that should be re-evaluated and meets current needs and changes,” said Ongkili.

Ongkili also said that the state Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition is still the best political pact to administer Sabah.

He said one of the challenges GRS faces is the ‘political frog’ culture that is part of the political landscape in Sabah.

“Among the other states, we probably have the most ‘frogs’.

“Despite the anti-party hopping law approved by state assemblies, they might find creative ways to move to other parties.

“We must think outside the box to handle this before it occurs,” he said.