MUHYIDDIN: LEADERSHIP IS KEY

SUPPORT......Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin together with Parti Bersatu Sabah President Joseph Pairin Kitingan during the 27th PBS Congress.

By : ELAINE MAH AND FIZAH YUSOF

PARTI Bersatu Sabah (PBS) is the most important asset for Barisan Nasional (BN), Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin told the assembly at the 27th PBS Congress at Penampang today.

“As an important partner in BN, under the leadership of its President Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, BN’s position will be even more solid,” he said.

Muhyiddin told the assembly that the reason for a gathering such as the PBS Congress  was to decide on the direction of the party specifically, and the country in general, so that the people, especially the people of Sabah will continue to prosper.

“I believe, under the leadership of Tan Sri Pairin, his deputies, the youths and all members, PBS will continue to play a role in our efforts to develop the state of Sabah as well as contribute to the development of the country as a whole,” he said.

Muhyiddin said that in the 55 years of BN leadership, the party has built a solid foundation through the implementation of various policies affecting the economy, the social and cultural development and education in the country – all of which have a big impact on the lives of the people.

However, this,Muhyiddin said , is not enough.

“Malaysia is not an isolated country. We are  part of the global community,

“The world has changed and this means that countries are competing against one another to become a developed and successful nation,” he stressed.

Muhyiddin reminded those present that Malaysia needs outstanding leadership In order to compete.

“We need not just a leader, but we need leadership. Leadership that is stricter, more courageous so that we are able to lead Malaysia to compete and succeed as a country in the international arena. I believe that Tan Sri Pairin and the others, and not forgetting our Chief Minister will be able to provide that kind of leadership,” he said.

In his opening speech, Pairin praised BN’s successful leadership over the past 55 years of its tenure in the country.

According to Pairin, a key of success in BN is its fundamental approach as a sensible party through unity, cooperation, understanding, tolerant and esprit de corps.

“As a BN member we must move in tandem in addressing the issues of the people. As long as we are united and work together we can fend off the enemy and able to defend the State as a stronghold of BN,” he said.

Pairin said the coming general election is very critical as it will determine the future of the people and nation.

"Our preparation is not sufficient by just attending meetings with the people and listen to speeches of BN leaders because we are facing a new challenge of a more enthusiastic opposition," he said.

Pairin further elaborated, “The opposition is not actually strong and they can't  threaten the Sabah BN position. But they have become a wheeler-dealer and give empty promises to the people.”

He said there are some people who seem to be influenced by political propaganda of the opposition. Therefore, we in BN should not take this lightly.

“In fact, we should work hard, be committed and go to the ground so that the faith that has been entrusted to us by our BN leaders will not be in vain,” he said.

“I urge all of you to continue the level of understanding and cooperation that we have and let us sink our disagreements and begin a new chapter based on sincerity in finding common interest and mutual respect.”

Following the withdrawal of Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) from Sabah Barisan Nasional in September 2008, the seats that were controlled by opposition are open to the BN component parties.

"We really look forward to additional seats in this coming election. We have conveyed it to the BN leadership," he said.

"I have said and I repeat once again that this matter should be determined by the wisdom of the BN leadership through roundtable discussion where BN component parties do not conflict but make a fair and just resolution," he said.

"PBS is prepared and will pin a winnable candidates to compete in any of the seats entrusted to PBS. Our hope is that our proposal gets the attention and support, "he said.

Muhyiddin said he is open to discussions on the proposal set forward by Pairin, saying that the matter can be negotiated.

“I leave it to the BN leadership to raise  this matter with  the Prime Minister,” he said.- Insight Sabah

GATHERED......5,000 party members gathered at the 27th PBS Congress.