Kota kinabalu: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed his commitment to avoiding three-cornered contests involving Pakatan Harapan (PH), Barisan Nasional (BN), and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election. Anwar, who holds positions as PH chairman and PKR president, emphasized the importance of securing an arrangement to prevent clashes or overlapping candidates among these coalitions through ongoing discussions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar indicated that while the goal is to avoid such scenarios, the party will advise against entering battles that could create divisions if they become necessary. He stressed the importance of achieving a full understanding to prevent pre-emptive actions. Anwar made these remarks to reporters following a meeting with Sabah PKR leaders.
Anwar further highlighted the significance of understanding among PH, BN, and GRS to prevent confusion among voters. He reiterated that ensuring this mutual understanding is a priority, though political circumstances can sometimes present challenges. Despite this, Anwar expressed optimism about collaborating with GRS and BN in the state election. He clarified that PH would not take sides in any political “love triangle” but would serve a balancing role to maintain political stability and prevent conflicts among allies.
He stated that PH’s role is not only to push for reform but also to foster a comprehensive understanding among all parties involved. Anwar underscored the necessity of full collaboration to ensure stability, peace, and a strong state government, which he views as essential for cooperation with the federal government for the benefit of Sabah and Malaysia.
On July 27, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, also GRS chairman, confirmed the formation of an electoral pact between GRS and PH for the state election. Two days later, BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi confirmed that the coalition had secured cooperation with PH as a partner in the upcoming election. The current five-year term of the 16th Sabah state assembly is set to expire on November 11, unless dissolved earlier.