Continuing cooperation with Harapan is GRS' top priority, says Hajiji

Summary:

• GRS chairperson Hajiji Noor says he is committed to collaborating with Sabah Pakatan Harapan in the next state elections.

• The Sabah chief minister adds he is open to working with other parties as long as they have good ideas and are not extreme.

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Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) has reiterated its commitment to continue collaborating with Sabah Pakatan Harapan in preparation for the next state polls.

GRS chairperson Hajiji Noor stated that he had informed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is also Harapan chairperson, about this matter.

He said cooperation with Harapan remains a priority for GRS, while the involvement of other parties depends on the current situation and their acceptance.

"As for the others, we will see. If their ideas are good and not extreme, we will consider them because what we want is for the good of all. As chief minister, what I want is unity.

"That's why I formed GRS, which consists of eight component parties, even though there are smaller parties within it that did not win in the last election. But my intentions are good, for us to unite.

"We’ve learned from past experiences. My mission now is to make peace with everyone, and gather the party presidents. Managing this is not easy, it's tiring, but Insya-Allah, they have also expressed their commitment to GRS,” he was quoted saying by Berita Harian.

Yesterday, Malaysiakini reported that Hajiji, who is facing intense pressure to step down following an alleged corruption scandal, met with Sabah Harapan leaders to seek their support.

Sources told Malaysiakini that during a meeting over dinner last night, Hajiji explained the issue and reiterated his firm stance on protecting Sabah’s resources.

The sources also revealed that the chief minister hoped Harapan would allow MACC to investigate the matter thoroughly before deciding whether to continue cooperating with GRS.

Sabah DAP mum

Sabah Harapan became a partner of GRS after seven members of the state legislative assembly representing the coalition pledged support for Hajiji and his leadership during the political crisis last January.

Sabah DAP chief Phoong Jin Zhe confirmed the dinner but declined to reveal details of the meeting.

He also confirmed that Sabah Harapan will hold a meeting on Dec 17 to decide on its status.

He said regardless of the confusing situation, DAP’s considerations remain clear, which is to ensure the final decision benefits the people and Sabah.

Meanwhile, Hajiji said he has also briefed Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on the status of GRS and its chances of winning the state election.

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