Unite and Change the Political Landscape in Sabah, Shafie Apdal reminds

KOTA KINABALU, Aug 9 — Parti Warisan (Warisan) President Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal has called on Sabahans to decisively shape the state’s political future, stressing the need to strengthen local unity and resist external political influence.

Speaking at a gathering in Kepayan here today, Shafie said that Warisan decided to contest all 73 state seats in the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election (PRN17) to prevent interference and ensure that victories remain in the hands of local parties.

“You are the ones who will decide and vote, not me. Decide for your future — not for Anwar Ibrahim, Zahid Hamidi or Hajiji Noor, but for the people of Sabah,” he said.

Shafie recalled telling former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad that instead of debating the Malaysia Agreement 1963, the focus should be on fulfilling what is already stated in the accord.

He also dismissed the notion that unity among Sabahans can only be achieved through political parties, stressing that it should be built on shared needs such as better education, healthcare, infrastructure, and basic amenities.

“Is it wrong for us to unite the Sabahan people under one roof? No. We must unite based on our common needs, not just political affiliations,” he said.

The Election Commission is expected to announce the official PRN17 dates soon.