KOTA KINABALU: Parti Bersatu Sabah needs to undertake new commitments, innovative practices and strategies to remain relevant.
PBS information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai suggested the concept of PBS 2.0 for the party, an initiative that could help rejuvenate the 39-year-old party.
He said it was crucial for PBS to shed its "old people's party" perception for one that pioneered efforts to regain state rights as enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and in the Federal Constitution.
"PBS has a rich history and legacy, and we must build on this foundation. We must leverage PBS' historical legacy," he said during his talk titled "The Way Forward for PBS" at the Seminar Platform Politik Anak Muda PBS.
"Perhaps it is time we consider PBS 2.0 as an initiative to really rejuvenate the party, stay relevant, and ensure we are not left behind but instead lead the way in innovative political practices."
Joniston suggested that the PBS Youth Wing take the lead in coming up with practical and workable strategies with achievable objectives and targets in the party's rejuvenation process.
"As future leaders of PBS, it is only proper for members of the party's youth wing to be in the forefront in the efforts to further strengthen the party and in attracting more members, especially among the younger generation," he said.
He said the PBS 2.0 concept should represent the members' commitment to modernisation, inclusivity and innovation, in line with current needs and leadership.
This initiative should include a comprehensive digital strategy, modernising campaign strategies, empowering youth and women, and, importantly, engaging the new generation of voters, he added.
"I see PBS 2.0 as a call to action for all members. It is not just a plan but a movement towards a brighter future for our party, and to me, this is the way forward for PBS," said Joniston.
He added that active participation from all members was important to bring this concept to fruition, whereby the youth and women can assist in shaping an effective modernisation blueprint for PBS.
The seminar was attended by the party's executive council members headed by Central Youth Movement chief Christopher Mandut and divisional youth leaders.