KOTA KINABALU: Former federal minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman is confident, with his extensive experience in diplomacy, of his ability to lead Sabah to greater heights – if given the opportunity to contest in the 16th state election.
The president of Sabah-based Parti Cinta Sabah (PCS) said his vast experience and achievements in the diplomatic sphere speak volumes of his ability to lead the nation, especially during tough times.
This includes his negotiation capabilities with foreign countries, which include securing the return of nine Malaysian diplomats from North Korea, and dealing with the MH17 and MH370 disasters, the dispute in the South China Sea, and the Philippines' claim over Sabah, among others.
"I think if I can manage the wellbeing and welfare of Malaysia in the global community, I can also manage Sabah.
"It's all about diplomacy, because your interest is also my interest," said Anifah at a press conference following a PCS meet-and-greet session with the media here, today.
The former Umno veteran was elected as PCS president in July.
The former Foreign Minister was giving his views on alternatives for the state leadership, with his brother Tan Sri Musa Aman and Parti Warisan Sabah (Warisan) president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal tussling for the top job.
In view of the upcoming state polls, Anifah has been touted as a potential Chief Ministerial candidate.
"Musa is my brother, I love him. Don't for one moment (think otherwise) but in politics, there are differences... As a Sabahan, I appreciate what Musa has done, but I think the time has passed and he should let new people take over.
"It's time to move on. What he (Musa) had done previously might be right for that particular time, but the 'cita rasa' (taste) has changed. People wanted change and they voted for Warisan (in the last election).
"However, they found that the changes they desired were not forthcoming. So, we (PCS) are going to provide them with the change that they want. This is only possible if (the people) put us in power and we work together for the betterment of our people," he added.
Calling on Sabahans to support the local party, the former Kimanis Member of Parliament said the people should regard him as simply "Musa's sibling" but as a party leader.
On the re-branding of PCS, he pointed out that many youth have expressed interest in joining the party's struggle, noting that senior leaders are ever ready to provide guidance to young members.
"Don't for one moment think we are not capable of administering the state. We are going to join forces with young people, academicians, politicians, mixed professionals, as well as new and old faces," he said.
Although PCS intends to stand on its own in the 16th state election, Anifah said they will work with other parties that share their common vision and mission.
He also stressed that the party has always been committed in pursuing Sabah's rights under the Malaysian Agreement 1963 (MA63).
When asked whether Sabah's economy would be given priority in view of current economic and political uncertainties, Anifah stressed the MA63 would be part of an economic solution that is needed to uplift Sabah.
"However, all this is not possible for Sabah, if we don't have peace and security, as well as a government to claim our rights as enshrined in MA63.
"We are not going to form a government that pleases other people, we form a government that pleases the people of Sabah.
"How we can please the Sabah people? We have to work that out and work with the federal government," he said.
In the 14th general election, PCS, under the leadership of Datuk Seri Wilfred Bumburing, contested in 18 state seats, but lost all in its bid.