KOTA KINABALU: Gandingan seems to be a more fitting concept that embodies partnership, collaboration, and shared responsibility of Sabah and Sarawak within Malaysia, rather than being labeled a “Bloc.”
Former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak remarked that the term “bloc” can carry a confrontational connotation.
“Sabah and Sarawak are partners in the Federation, not a distinct group outside of it.
“Any collaboration between the two states should therefore be viewed within this context, and for this reason, Gandingan is a more suitable term than a ‘bloc,'” he stated in his Facebook post.
Yesterday, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor emphasized that there is no such entity as a ‘Borneo bloc’ and that Sabah and Sarawak continue to be integral parts of Malaysia.
Salleh noted that by uniting, Sabah and Sarawak can enhance their negotiating power and persist in addressing critical issues such as the execution of MA63 and equitable parliamentary representation, including the longstanding demand for one-third of the seats.
He mentioned that the Sabah state election has demonstrated the will of the majority.
“This should also be mirrored in the strategy for the upcoming general election.
“To realize this, personal and party interests must be put aside. The long-term interests of Sabah should take precedence,” he added.
Gandingan: A Constructive Way Forward
KOTA KINABALU: Gandingan appears to be a more appropriate concept that reflects partnership, cooperation and shared responsibility of Sabah and Sarawak
within Malaysia, rather than a “Bloc”
Former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak said the word “bloc” can sound confrontational.
“Sabah and Sarawak are partners in the Federation, not a separate grouping outside it.
“Any cooperation between the two states must therefore be understood within this framework and for that reason, a more appropriate concept is Gandingan rather than a “bloc.”,” he said in his Facebook post.
Yesterday, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor has stressed that there is no such thing as a “Borneo bloc” and that Sabah and Sarawak remain part of Malaysia.
Salleh said by moving together, Sabah and Sarawak can strengthen their bargaining position and continue to pursue key matters such as the implementation of MA63 and fairer parliamentary representation, including the long-standing call for one-third seats.
He said the Sabah state election has shown the will of the majority.
“This should also be reflected in the approach towards the next general election.
“To achieve this, personal and party interests must be set aside. Sabah’s long-term interests must come first,” he added.
