PBS president Maximus Ongkili said his party regards itself a GRS founding member, describing it as “noble and timeless”, as well as a “rakyat-based” coalition.

“We invite Warisan and supporters to subscribe to the same goals to truly develop Sabah and secure a prosperous and safe state, free from illegal foreigners,” he said in a statement.

Maximus urged Sabah political parties to return to the roots of the state’s political foundation when it joined Malaysia in 1963.

He said Sabah parties should aim for “political unison” achieved by pioneer political parties during its admission as a Malaysian state in 1963 and such ideals should continue in further solidarity with neighbouring Sarawak.

“Any respected local Sabah political party can subscribe to GRS’ goals and aspirations without being a coalition member.

“We in PBS value the political gesture of Warisan and its president Shafie Apdal to cooperate and collaborate for the upcoming general election but, as a local seasoned multiracial party, we are fully committed and loyal to GRS and its partners,” he said.