MELAKA (Aug 15): Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who is the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) chairman, and other leaders’ attendance at the 2026 PKR National Congress on Saturday reflected the strong ties and spirit of cooperation between the Sabah and federal governments, according to Sabah PKR.

Sabah PKR leadership council chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said the cooperation extends beyond politics, encompassing all aspects.

“Our priority is to ensure that stability translates into development, economic opportunities, better basic amenities and solutions to issues that are closely related to the lives of the people of Sabah,” he said in a statement.

Mustapha, who is also the minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak affairs), said the unity government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had a responsibility to ensure that national development is implemented inclusively and equitably, taking into account the needs and unique characteristics of every region, including Sabah.

He added that PKR would also remain consistent in championing Sabah’s rights and interests, including the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 within a fair federal framework that respects the state’s position and special status.

Mustapha also expressed deep appreciation for the presence of Hajiji and GRS leaders as special guests.

Among the GRS leaders present were Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, Sabah Rural Development Minister Datuk Rubin Balang, and Sabah Youth, Sports Development and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan.

Also present were Sabah Education, Science and Technology Minister Datuk James Ratib, GRS deputy secretary general Datuk Mohd Razali Mohd Razi, and Balung assemblyman Syed Ahmad Syed Abas.

“Their presence at the PKR National Congress sends a message that political differences should not be a barrier to us sitting together and building mutual understanding when it comes to the interests of Sabah and its people,” Mustapha said.

Anwar, who is the PKR president, on Saturday officiated the 2026 PKR National Congress themed ‘Memugar Reformasi, Membina Madani’ at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) here.

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