KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan Sabah said the pact formed between Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Parti Solidarity Tanah Airku (Star Sabah) was merely to serve their own political interests.
Warisan vice president Terrenace Siambun said the primary focus of any political agreement should always be the welfare and interests of the people.
"Evidently, the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between PBS and Star Sabah aims to serve their respective interests.
"This is because it doesn't reflect inclusivity and collaboration with the other five component parties within the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition, he said in a statement.
Terrence said fellow partners of PBS-Star in the coalition are Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat), the United National Sabah Organisation (Usno), Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), and Harapan Rakyat.
PBS acting president Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam and Star Sabah president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan signed the MoU at KDCA Hongkod Koisaan in Penampang yesterday to formalise their cooperation ahead of the state's general election scheduled to be due by next year.
"Is there no dialogue and cooperation among all parties in GRS to ensure collective participation and equitable representation?" he asked.
Political agreements such as MoUs often serve as mechanisms to streamline processes and enhance coordination within coalitions, said Terrence.
However, their success ultimately hinges on the ability to translate into tangible benefits for the people they represent, he added.
Sabah is fraught with issues that should take priority instead of political expediency, he said.
"These urgent issues range from economic development and infrastructure improvement to education and healthcare services.
"These issues should remain at the forefront of any political endeavour," said Terrence.
While MoUs can play a role in shaping political landscapes, their true measure lies in their ability to address the needs and aspirations of the people, he said.
