Sabah PKR: Fight for State Rights Should Unite, Not Divide Us After Upko’s Exit

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 10: Sabah PKR has expressed regret over UPKO’s decision to leave the Pakatan Harapan coalition, stressing that the struggle to restore Sabah’s constitutional rights should serve as a platform for unity rather than division.

Sabah PKR chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said while the party respected UPKO’s move, he believed that all Sabah-based political parties should remain united in their pursuit of the state’s rights under the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

“The fight for Sabah’s rights should not be the reason for fallouts and splits. It should be a basis for unity in a mature and respectful spirit of federalism,” Mustapha said in a statement on Monday.

He urged all parties, including UPKO, to continue prioritizing the interests of Sabahans above politics and to maintain collaboration under the broader vision of national unity and reform.

“We must continue to work together for Sabah, regardless of party lines, guided by the spirit of reformation and unity,” he added.

Mustapha also took the opportunity to thank UPKO and its leadership, particularly party president Datuk Ewon Benedick, for their years of partnership and contribution to Sabah Pakatan Harapan since 2019.

“During these few years together, we have forged strong bonds at every level  from grassroots supporters to top leadership,” he said.
“This collaboration was instrumental in advancing reform agendas, good governance, and inclusive development in Sabah.”

He expressed hope that despite UPKO’s withdrawal, both parties could still find common ground in championing Sabah’s development and rights within Malaysia’s federal framework.

Upko president Datuk Ewon Benedick had earlier announced the party’s withdrawal from Pakatan Harapan, citing growing dissatisfaction with the Federal Government’s handling of Sabah’s 40% revenue entitlement and differences in views over the implementation of MA63.

The decision marks a significant political realignment ahead of the upcoming Sabah state elections, as both parties navigate shifting alliances while pledging to uphold the “Sabah First” agenda.