KOTA KINABALU: A former Sabah PKR chief says she will support Datuk Mustapha Sakmud to helm the party.

PKR Api Api division chief Datuk Christina Liew, who had helmed the party for almost two decades, said she would not contest for the state party's chairmanship anymore.

"No. I won't (return as state PKR chairman). I have been one for 20 years, I think it is time PKR gets (a new leader). I would like to continue supporting and helping (the party).

"As I said last time, PKR will not break even though we have a lot of events… people come in and go out (of the party). It is okay, I will remain here," she said after the state-level Hari Raya celebration at Sabah International Convention Centre here.

Recently, the state PKR was said to be facing an internal crisis when 15 out of 26 division chiefs asked incumbent chairman Datuk Sangkar Rasam to step down.

Despite the call, Sangkar had insisted on staying as the decision on the state chairmanship was the prerogative of PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Mustapha, a Sepanggar member of parliament and deputy higher education minister, had also told the media that he was ready to shoulder the responsibility if given the opportunity.

"Of course, I don't mind saying that I'm one of the 15 signees (to reject Sangkar). I think (Mustapha) is a federal deputy minister and he gets the support of division leaders.

"But whoever is being appointed by the president, we will work together. We are hoping to meet him (Anwar) and listen to his advice."

Liew, who is also state tourism, culture and environment minister, added that she was also hoping that Anwar's visit to Sabah on April 20 would solve the state party crisis.

Anwar, who is the prime minister, is slated to attend the national-level Hari Raya celebration at Sabah International Convention Centre here.

Earlier, Liew congratulated the federal and state governments for organising beautiful Hari Raya open houses.

She said under the leadership of Anwar and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Malaysia had become a tolerant and respectful country.

"Sabah government is sponsoring major celebrations such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, the harvest festival and Christmas.

"This is a very good sign that the chief minister is very open and tolerant."

https://www.nst.com.my/news/politics/2024/04/1037746/former-sabah-pkr-chief-declares-support-mustapha