By Former Ranau Member of Parliament and PBS Sec Gen Datuk Henrynus Amin
KOTA KINABALU: PBS created history by toppling Berjaya in 1985. But PBS ascendancy heralded a period of uncertainty and instability in Sabah politics. In 1994, against the entire weight of the Federal Govn, PBS lost power.
PBS rejoined BN in 2000 and was a loyal component member until 2018. PBS has seen itself shifting allegiances every time there is a change of PM.
After BN lost power, PBS shifted to PH under Tun Mahathir. After Tun Mahathir, PBS shifted to Bersatu under Muhyiddin. When Muhyidin lost power, PBS adapted quickly to be with Ismail Sabry as PM.
In the last 15 GE, Anwar whom PBS despised became PM. For the first time since 2004, PBS was not represented in the Federal Cabinet. As a component of GRS, PBS is part of the PH unity government.
Now it begs the question, what was the original political vision of PBS? Has the party achieved its political vision?
I left PBS because the party refused to follow through on the outcome of the report in the RCI on illegal immigrants and fraudulent ICs. Has PBS achieved anything? Where does PBS stands on this issue now. Can PBS show what were the actions they have taken to resolve the issue of transient population?
How about MA63? Dr Max promised within 6 months he would resolve MA63? His apparent solution and achievement in 6 months as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Dept was the signing of the Sabah state consent on rn125.6 million federal grant to Sabah in lieu of the 40% entitlement.
Due to state consent to accept the rm125.6 federal grant, the 40% state entitlement was no longer applicable. This prompted 12 PH leaders to file a court case in protest. SLS too filed a court case seeking a judicial review of the matter.
PBS purportedly represents the KDM Momogun constituent, what has PBS achieved in terms of socio economic progress of the community. Is there one thing that all KDM Momogun can be truly thankful to PBS for their achievement? Of course, PBS continues to champion KDCA, Kaamatan and Huguan Siou. I agree this would be TS Pairin and PBS greatest legacy.
Without TS Pairin, and with Dr Max health in question, is PBS still relevant to the issues of today? PBS’s long silence on issues is intriguing.
Since PBS has been holding senior state and Federal Cabinet positions, it is time to account for its action in the last 30 years.
PBS continues to rely on the charisma of ageing TS Pairin seen walking behind TS Musa and DSP Hajiji during the recent GRS AGM.
PBS rejected the very idea of merger with Star which I personally advocated through Dr Jeffrey.
There is mounting distrust, anger and discontent in KDM Momogun constituents.
Can PBS survive the next wave of challenge in its stronghold?
PBS lost in Kota Marudu (Tandek & Matunggung) and Tuaran (Kiulu & Tamparuli) in the last parliamentary election.
I am sure Telupid and Kundasang will be in the firing line too in the next state general election.
Will KDM Momogun hold on to old outdated political vision and leadership or they subscribe to a new political vision and try a new leadership predicated on the new political reality of the day?
Or will KDM Momogun sell their soul for a cup of political porridge, and continue with the 30 rot for another 30 years of misery?
