The BN’s strength lies in its partners
Friday, 15 September 2006 (Source: The Star)

KOTA KINABALU -- Barisan Nasional parties must continuously build upon their strengths as this will ensure the ruling coalition becomes stronger, said Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

“The Barisan concept is such that a strong component will by itself help strengthen the other parties in the coalition,” the Prime Minister said in his message for the 21st Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) congress here.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak is scheduled to open the PBS congress as well as that of another Barisan component, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), on Sept 19.

Abdullah said a strong PBS would ensure Sabah’s development programmes remained on track, particularly the national mission and the Ninth Malaysia Plan.

In his message, Najib said the diverse cultures, religions and races in Sabah should not be a hindrance to getting all the communities to work together for a more progressive and modern state.

Najib said, in this regard, PBS and other Sabah Barisan components must strengthen their relationship, as this would augur well for the state’s well being.

“Political stability is an important ingredient in ensuring Sabah moves forward,” he said, adding that he was heartened that the PBS leadership was mature and experienced.

“They have also realised that the party's return to the Barisan will help make the coalition stronger,” he added.

PBS president and Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan, who has headed the party since its formation in 1985, remains unchallenged for the post this year.

Nominations closed last Friday.

His three deputies, Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili, Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai and Datuk Pengiran AK Aliuddin, were also returned unchallenged.

PBS executive secretary Robert Munang said the elections were scheduled for the posts of five vice presidents and 15 supreme council seats.

He said there were nine contenders for the five vice president’s posts, with incumbents Datuk Michael Asang and Edward Yong Oui Fah in the running.

Munang said there were 33 contenders for the 15 supreme council seats.

Over at the LDP meeting, party president Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat is relinquishing the post and delegates are widely expected to endorse lawyer Liew Vui Keong as their new leader.