By Dr Jikat Binol Darimbang
PENAMPANG: The Hongkod Koisaan KDCA Hall in Penampang witnessed a historic moment today as over 7,000 supporters of the Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) and the Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) filled the hall in conjunction with the PBS-STAR Unity Convention 2025.
With the theme “One Voice, Our Home We Protect”, this convention signifies a paradigm shift in the political landscape of Sabah as two parties rooted in local struggles – which previously often clashed in elections – unite their voices and hearts to advocate for the future of their beloved state.
The blue and white colors proudly waved throughout the hall, symbolizing the strength, sincerity, and agreement of the two political movements now working together on a shared platform – Sabah for Sabahan.
The convention also featured two beloved leaders, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Jeffrey Kitingan, President of STAR, and YB Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Joachim Gunsalam, President of PBS, who were present alongside the top leadership of both parties.
In their speeches, both leaders emphasized that this collaboration is not merely an electoral strategy, but a pledge of joint struggle to safeguard the rights of Sabah, empower the state’s economy, and ensure that the voices of the people of Sabah are heard and respected at the national level.
The convention’s slogan, “One Voice, Our Home We Protect”, was embraced with enthusiasm by supporters as a symbol of renewed determination to defend the dignity, land, and future of the state’s generations.
With the 17th Sabah State Election approaching, the official collaboration between PBS and STAR is seen as a proactive and strategic step in strengthening a local political bloc that truly understands the pulse and aspirations of the people of Sabah.
The PBS-STAR alliance not only reflects political maturity but also a readiness to move forward within a broader framework of unity.
