DATUK Seri Hajiji Noor has urged Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) leaders to set aside political differences and personal ambitions, warning that infighting could weaken the coalition’s ability to defend Sabah’s interests at the federal level.
Hajiji, who is both Chief Minister and GRS chairman, said the coalition’s strength depended on unity among its component parties, rather than disputes over positions or individual political interests.
“There is no point praising the unity of others if we are still fighting among ourselves within our own GRS house. Sabah’s strength begins here, with our own unity,” he said in his keynote address at the GRS Convention 2026 at Dewan Tun Mustapha today.
Hajiji said GRS was formed in 2020 to give Sabah a stronger local political voice, allowing the state to determine its own future, defend the interests of its people and maintain political stability.
He said the coalition’s emergence as the largest bloc in the 17th Sabah state election in November last year was a collective achievement, made possible by the contributions of its component parties, leaders and members.
“No party is so big that it no longer needs its partners. And no party is so small that its contribution can be ignored. Each has a role to play,” he said.
Hajiji stressed that the interests of GRS must take precedence over those of any individual component party, while the interests of Sabah must remain paramount above the coalition itself.
He said the distinction was important to ensure the coalition remained focused on the people and the state, rather than allowing internal political considerations to overshadow its wider responsibilities.
The GRS chairman also reminded party leaders not to forget the sacrifices of grassroots members who helped secure the coalition’s electoral success.
He said many had contributed their own money, used their personal vehicles and spent time away from their families during the campaign, often without recognition or media attention.
“These are the people who form the real foundation of GRS. Those of us standing on this stage are here because so many people below and outside have helped and lifted us to where we are today. We must never forget them,” he added.
Hajiji said the departure of certain parties from the coalition to pursue their own political paths should serve as a lesson for GRS to strengthen cooperation and approach decisions with greater maturity.
He urged leaders to put aside personal egos and recognise the contributions of every component party, saying no single party could claim sole credit for the coalition’s achievements.
Hajiji also called for greater understanding of Sabah’s diverse communities and respect for voters’ differing political choices.
He explained that GRS must continue strengthening its organisation and cooperation among component parties to maintain public confidence and ensure the coalition remains united in pursuing Sabah’s interests.
A united GRS, he said, would be better placed to strengthen Sabah’s bargaining position in dealings with the federal government. – October 18, 2026