GABUNGAN Rakyat Sabah (GRS) was focused on developing the economy for the people rather than replacing the unity government via backdoor manoeuvres, its secretary-general Masidi Manjun said.

Masidi said the coalition’s stance was clear that it supports Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and the unity government to ensure efforts towards economic development could continue smoothly.

The Sabah finance minister said GRS supported Anwar’s efforts to continue leading the current administration until the end of the government’s term.

“For GRS, our focus is on economic recovery because the people are affected by the uncertain economy. Therefore, we concentrate on rebuilding the economy and channelling all our efforts towards this direction.

“We are also comfortable with the unity government due to the fact we feel appreciated. In any government, every member should be regarded as vital, so we feel GRS is an essential component of the unity government,” he told reporters today.

Masidi was met at the Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) Christmas Open House here, with Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Juhar Mahiruddin also present.

Last Saturday, Anwar expressed confidence the episode of changing administrations through backdoor manoeuvres would not happen as the current government enjoys strong support from Sarawak.

The prime minister said in the current political situation, the role or stand of GPS is quite critical because only with statements and support from leading parties of Sarawak (GPS) and Sabah (GRS) could such a change of government happen.

Masidi further said political parties should set aside trivial matters and prioritise helping the people by implementing economic recovery efforts together.

When asked about the cooperation between PBS and STAR, he said the collaborative efforts of the two GRS components played a crucial role in strengthening the coalition and uniting the people in Sabah.

Apart from PBS and STAR, GRS also includes Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah, Sabah Progressive Party, United Sabah National Organisation, Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah and Liberal Democratic Party. – Bernama, December 25, 2023.