UPKO Officially Joins GRS as Hajiji Eyes Stronger Local Coalition Ahead of General Election
KOTA KINABALU: The application by the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) to join the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) has been unanimously approved, marking a significant expansion of the Sabah-based political coalition.
The decision takes immediate effect, making UPKO the newest component party in GRS and further strengthening the coalition that currently governs the state.
GRS chairman and Sabah Chief Minister Hajiji Noor said the move was consistent with the coalition’s Sabah United, Sabah First agenda, which aims to unite local parties in advancing Sabah’s interests.
According to Hajiji, UPKO’s inclusion will not only broaden political cooperation among local parties but also reinforce the stability of the current state administration.
“We unanimously agreed to accept UPKO as a new member of GRS.
“This decision is in line with GRS’ struggle under the Sabah United, Sabah First principle, which seeks to strengthen local political cooperation and maintain the stability of the existing state government,” he said.
He was speaking at a press conference after chairing the GRS Supreme Council meeting at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) today.
Hajiji said the decision was reached without objections as all component parties share the same objective of strengthening GRS as the primary political platform representing Sabah’s aspirations.
He added that UPKO’s entry is expected to expand public support for the coalition while enhancing its political machinery ahead of future elections.
“There were no concerns raised because our objective is clear — to strengthen GRS.
“We want the coalition to remain the main platform for Sabahans and continue to be relevant in the years ahead,” he said.
The Chief Minister said the decision would be officially conveyed to UPKO’s leadership soon.
Meanwhile, Hajiji revealed that the Supreme Council meeting also discussed early preparations for the next General Election.
He said all component parties have been instructed to strengthen their grassroots machinery across Sabah’s parliamentary constituencies to ensure the coalition is fully prepared.
Hajiji also reiterated that GRS would contest under its own logo in the coming election, with all component parties using the coalition’s symbol.
“GRS remains GRS. We will use the GRS logo and that is our collective decision.
“As for candidates, we will choose individuals who have the best chance of winning and serving the people,” he said.
On seat allocation, Hajiji hinted that GRS is targeting all 26 parliamentary seats in Sabah, including Labuan, in the next General Election.
However, he stressed that discussions on seat distribution and electoral strategies are still at an early stage and will be finalised through consultations among component parties.
According to him, the coalition’s immediate priority is to maintain unity and continue working as a cohesive team to ensure political stability and sustainable development in Sabah.
Hajiji expressed confidence that with strong cooperation among local parties and continued public support, GRS would be well-positioned to face future political challenges and maintain its role as the cornerstone of Sabah’s administration.
