Wong, who is also Likas assemblyman, told FMT, “We have been waiting for a long, long time for an opportunity to regain our dignity, autonomy and the right to make our own decisions without having to refer to Peninsular Malaysia.”

Wong who quit the DAP as its state secretary this month, urged Sabahans to seize this “golden opportunity” to restore the state’s original position within the Federation of Malaysia so that it can become the partner it was supposed to, in deciding the country’s future.

The positions of Sabah and Sarawak, in regard to the Malaysia Agreement 1963, have been a focal point of East Malaysian politicians in recent times.

Wong said he opted to join Warisan, as he believed Sabah politics was too divisive, and that it was best for all leaders to unite under one platform, adding they should unite under Warisan president Shafie Apdal rather than forming new parties.

One of his ambitions in Warisan, Wong said, was to replace all West Malaysian Federal government officers and teachers in the state with Sabahans.

He will also push for ‘fairer’ share of oil and gas royalties, as well as a new international port, which would allow for direct import and export activities.

Wong also urged national opposition parties to assist Warisan in the state to avoid multi-cornered fights with Barisan Nasional.

Given the current sentiments in Sabah, it made more sense for Warisan to lead the charge in the state, and in return they would help the opposition capture Putrajaya, he said.

Earlier today, Shafie unveiled the new Sabah party which he formed with Penampang MP and former PKR vice-president Darell Leiking.

Shafie will lead the party, while Leiking will be his deputy. Wong, businessman Peter Anthony and Sulabayan assemblyman, Jaujan Sambakong, were named vice-presidents.