Pairin is founding president of PBS and Huguan Siou of the KDM community. He is widely regarded as the party’s most influential figure despite stepping back from frontline politics, says Lee Kuok Tiung of Universiti Malaysia Sabah.
“His blessing isn’t just a political endorsement, it is a form of cultural and moral legitimacy that candidates crave to secure the vote of PBS grassroots,” Lee told FMT. Pairin’s backing was seen as a crucial stabiliser to prevent any internal factions amid the party polls.
“Even if he doesn’t release any official statement, a simple photo next to a specific leader is enough to signal his consensus to delegates,” Lee said.
Pairin founded PBS in 1985 and led it to victory in the state elections, serving as Sabah chief minister from 1985 to 1994. He stepped down as party president in 2018.
His successor, Maximus Ongkili, stepped down in June 2024 for health reasons, and Dr Joachim Gunsalam took over as acting president.
PBS is expected to hold its party polls this year with Joachim anticipated to formally vie for the PBS presidency, which would open up a contest for the non-Muslim Bumiputera deputy president’s where Pairin’s influence could prove decisive.
PBS has three deputy presidents representing the non-Muslim Bumiputera, Muslim Bumiputera and Chinese communities. Being a KDM-based party, the non-Muslim Bumiputera deputy president is often seen as next in line to helm the party.
Joachim was elected PBS deputy president for the non-Muslim Bumiputera quota in 2022, defeating Joniston Bangkuai, who was later appointed as PBS information chief.
PBS’s other two deputy presidents are Jahid Jahim (Muslim Bumiputera) and Yee Moh Chai (Chinese). Both of them do not hold parliamentary or states seats.
Pairin, who was in Kuala Lumpur to launch Explore Sabah at the Matta Fair over the weekend, declined to comment when asked on the upcoming PBS elections.
Key role behind the scenes
Syahruddin Awang Ahmad, also of UMS, said Pairin continues to play a key role behind the scenes in PBS, describing him as the party’s “grand elder and ultimate mediator”.
“He exerts influence through behind-the-scenes consultations and public appearances at major party functions, where his presence reinforces party unity,” said Syahruddin.
On the deputy president race, Syahruddin said Pairin’s input would be crucial and would undoubtedly have a significant say, as the position is crucial for the party’s future succession planning.
“While the election process is democratic, a subtle nod from the Huguan Siou can consolidate support and deter divisive contests,” he added.
Tony Paridi Bagang of Universiti Teknologi Mara Sabah said Pairin’s role as party adviser lent both legitimacy and direction to the party.
“His presence reflects both historical legitimacy and symbolic authority within the party. His endorsement and moral support are often seen as crucial in sustaining party cohesion, strengthening internal unity, and reinforcing its ideological direction.”