By JAMES LEONG
SANDAKAN: Karamunting Assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin has called on Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS) to be fully prepared for the fast-approaching State Election (PRN), emphasizing the need to engage the people at all grassroots levels and understand their pressing issues.
“We must work diligently now, going down to every area, meeting the grassroots, understanding and listening to their problems,” Hiew said in his speech at the PGRS Karamunting Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at a hotel here yesterday.
The event, attended by nearly 400 members, also witnessed the addition of 10 new branches, bringing the division’s total to 80 branches.
PGRS Deputy President Datuk Masiung Banah officiated the AGM. Also present were leaders from allied parties, including Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong Shir Yee (DAP), PBS Karamunting Division Chief David Fong, and representatives from PGRS Sekong.
In his address, Hiew who is PGRS Karamunting division chairman, asserted that Sabahans have become more politically mature and now demand tangible results rather than mere political rhetoric.
“In the past, local parties were often pressured by parties from Peninsular Malaysia, and we only became ‘yes men’. But the people are tired – they want development, jobs, and stability,” he said.
He added that since Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) took the helm, various advancements have been achieved, particularly in the oil and gas sector, including the recently announced ESTEEL project.
“We have never seen a Prime Minister come to Sabah almost every month before. I believe with this excellent cooperation we will achieve development and prosperity.”
Hiew stressed that Sabah needs to learn from Sarawak in maintaining political stability and building strong ties with the Federal Government for the people’s benefit.
“Sabah changes governments too frequently. That’s why we are lagging behind Sarawak. But through past experiences and observing what’s happening in Sarawak, I am confident Sabah’s future will be better, both economically and politically.”
The Assemblyman firmly stated that government stability is the foundation for all the progress desired by the people of Sabah.
“We must continue the momentum we have now. If we keep changing governments, development will not materialize. We can no longer afford to take such risks.”
He urged all PGRS machinery and the people of Sabah to unite in strengthening the state’s direction, ensuring the continuity of policies that benefit future generations.
