KOTA KINABALU: The appointment of Datuk Ewon Benedick as chairman of Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH) is expected to strengthen the coalition's influence in governing the state.
Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) information chief Datuk Joniston Bangkuai congratulated the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) president on his new role.
"PH is already an integral part of the Sabah government, and we hope his leadership will further enhance the state's political stability," Joniston said after attending the Miss World Malaysia 2024 press conference at a hotel here.
The state Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment pointed out that the collaboration between GRS and PH over the past two years had yielded significant achievements, including a surge in state revenue to nearly RM7 billion and the largest-ever budget allocation of RM6.45 billion for next year.
"This demonstrates that there is strong cooperation between us," he said.
Joniston also addressed concerns about public perceptions of local and national parties, stressing that PH and its component, Upko, remain firmly committed to Sabah's development.
"Although Upko is part of PH at the national level, it is also recognised as a local party. For us in GRS, the focus is on collaboration that benefits Sabah, rather than drawing lines based on local or national affiliations.
"What matters is our ability to work together for the welfare of the state," he said.
Earlier, Joniston said that Sabah had been selected for the third time to host Miss World Malaysia 2024.
The grand finale, featuring 11 contestants — including four from Sabah — will take place tomorrow at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
Present at the event were Miss World Malaysia National director Dr Sean Wong, SunStrong Entertainment and Thousands of Years Media founder Jment Lim, and Miss World Malaysia 2023 Saroop Roshi.