Joachim officially takes over as PBS president

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Dr Joachim Gunsalam has officially assumed leadership of Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) as its president. He was unanimously elected at the party's 41st Annual Delegates Congress, succeeding Dr Maximus Johnity Ongkili. Dr Joachim will hold the position until 2029. He assumed the role of acting president on June 1, 2024, after Ongkili handed over the leadership responsibilities.

Dr Joachim's maiden policy speech highlighted the need for PBS to renew itself and remain relevant to present and future generations. His leadership will be guided by unity, stability, and integrity, with a focus on strengthening organizational structure, embracing technology and digitalization, and developing a new generation of leaders, particularly to engage younger Sabahans.

He also proposed a task force to examine strategies for strengthening and rejuvenating the party, with a focus on issues like the Malaysia Agreement 1963, economy, education, employment, cost of living, rural development, and technology. The new leadership lineup includes three deputy presidents representing Bumiputera non-Muslim, Bumiputera Muslim, and Chinese communities.

Vice-presidents, secretary-general, treasurer-general, and information chief positions were also retained. The supreme council will comprise experienced party members, with Chinese representatives from various backgrounds.