KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Pakatan Harapan (PH)-Upko coalition will remain a partner in the state government until the latter completes its full term.
The state PH said in a statement it is aware of speculation on new coalitions forming ahead of the state election, which must be called by next year.
"Sabah PH has yet to discuss any understanding or possible alliances for the coming election.
"Nevertheless, Sabah PH remains part of the Sabah government and supports the leadership of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, and will see that this government reaches its full term.
"What is equally important is that we are committed to the development and well-being of the people under the Madani government."
Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said last week BN and PH must strengthen ties ahead of the Sabah election.
In January last year, Sabah PH threw its weight behind the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-led government instead of joining an attempt to unseat Hajiji, which was spearheaded by Umno, Parti Warisan and Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat.
The state PH also said it does not want Madani Village Development committees to be set up in the state.
It said the state legislative assembly had passed an amendment to the Rural Administration Ordinance, which gave autonomy to the state government to manage village committees.
"Every Sabah PH elected representative supported the amendments to the Rural Administration Ordinance.
"We welcome any federal funding for Sabah, especially for the development of rural communities. We also believe that such funds should be managed by the Sabah government to give meaning to and respect for Sabah state laws."
The Madani Village Development Committee was initiated by the Rural and Regional Development Ministry led by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.