TAMBUNAN: The former Tambunan Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) Deputy Chairman, Geoffrey Yong, along with his wife, Ervena Joan, has announced their departure from the party after more than 30 years of membership, opting to join the Sabah People’s Vision Party (PGRS).
This historic decision was made after he observed the leadership developments of the Tambunan PGRS Division, led by Datuk Victor P. Paut, who represents the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), thus altering his political direction.
“My wife and I have chosen to join PGRS because we believe in the direction of the struggle led by Victor.
“He brings a fresh perspective to Tambunan’s politics,” he said during the handing over of membership forms here on Wednesday.
Geoffrey’s and his wife’s membership forms were accepted by the Deputy Division Chief (NKB) of PGRS Tambunan, Hussein Hassan, in the presence of Division Committee members Sylvester Yapas, Aziz Banting, and other leadership figures.
Geoffrey’s departure from SAPP after three decades is seen as a new support signal for PGRS in Tambunan, which has long been recognised as a stronghold of the President of the Homeland Solidarity Party (STAR) Sabah, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who has left the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) along with SAPP.
Tambunan is now a battleground for intense political competition between STAR, led by Jeffrey, and the newly established influence, with PGRS emerging as a new force under Datuk Victor’s leadership.
This recent development is expected to add a new dimension to the political landscape of Tambunan ahead of the 17th State Election (PRN).
During his leadership, Victor has been actively engaging with the community to address issues faced by the people in the villages, including rural development, basic infrastructure, economic opportunities, and education for the younger generation.
His approachable demeanour and hard work in advocating for the local community are seen as key factors that are increasingly attracting the support of Tambunan’s residents towards PGRS.
