By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Ahead of the 17th Sabah General Election (PRU17), about 150 youths from across political allegiances gathered to showcase the power of collaboration over division.
The youths representing the Democratic Action Party (DAP), Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (MUDA), Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS), Parti Impian Sabah (PIS), Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), Parti Solidarity Tanah Airku (STAR), United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO), and Parti Warisan Sabah met to discuss issues at the “Bah-Bincang Kita” Sabah Pre-Election Youth Forum 2025, held at a hotel.
The topics of discussion centred on issues affecting the everyday lives of Sabahans: the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and Sabah’s rights, fair pricing and cost of living, anti-corruption measures, resource management, road quality, and inclusivity for persons with disabilities.
Many participants found the forum engaging as it provided space for interaction and open dialogue, thanks to the approach applied by Hai Mandak (HM), Gerakan Anak Sabah (GAS), and SPADE, who served as emcee and facilitator.
The Community Empowerment Initiative Sabah, along with GAS, HM, SPADE, SEEN, The Sip Sip Show, Sabah Youth Movement, and Kupi Kupi FM, created a platform that encouraged connection and collaboration among youth leaders.
The discussions were held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere, proving that politics need not be confrontational.
“This togetherness is unique to Sabah. We are peace-loving people, and this is what we must preserve.
“We live on an island. No matter how hard life gets, we must be self-reliant and solve our own problems. We cannot afford to fight amongst ourselves,” said former Sabah Health Director Datuk Dr Christina Rundi, who attended as an observer.
“This forum shows that young Sabahans are capable of thinking beyond party lines, prioritising ideas over ego, and shaping a future that belongs to all,” said the organising committee.
“It’s a reminder that politics can be intelligent, respectful, and deeply human,” it added.
The public is invited to watch the video at https://www.facebook.com/ceisabah.org or https://youtube.com/@thesipsipshow.
