PBS information chief Joniston Bangkuai said the party remained unfazed by the exit of Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) and the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) as it has faced tougher challenges in its long history.

“We’ve gone through many phases of change, but our principles remain the same, that is to serve with dedication and always put the people first.

“PBS has always been a steadying presence in GRS, ensuring that, together, the coalition can meet the expectations of Sabahans,” he said at a meet-the-people event in Kiulu, his constituency, today.

Joniston, who is also GRS information chief, added that PBS has played a crucial role in safeguarding the ruling coalition’s cohesion and credibility.

He added that the party’s influence stems from its consistency, grounded leadership and experience navigating Sabah’s shifting political dynamics.

PBS is among GRS’s six component parties, alongside chief minister Hajiji Noor’s Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah, the Liberal Democratic Party, United Sabah National Organisation, Parti Harapan Rakyat Sabah (PHRS) and Parti Cinta Sabah.

Gagasan Rakyat held the bulk of GRS’s 40 seats in the recently dissolved state assembly with 26 assemblymen, followed by seven from PBS, six direct GRS members, and one from PHRS.

STAR and SAPP quit the coalition earlier this month in protest of GRS’s insistence on sticking to an electoral pact with Pakatan Harapan.

STAR had six assemblymen, including Kitingan. The other five have said they will continue backing GRS in the state polls.