Pairin might take leave from Parti Bersatu Sabah

Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) president Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan might take leave from the party, giving an opportunity for other leaders to take up his role.

The 75-year-old political heavyweight said he had no problem putting his trust in other members of the PBS' supreme council to lead the party in his absence.

"I may take a 12-month leave and let these people (other PBS supreme council members) do this job (lead party)... no problem," he told reporters after closing the 30th PBS Annual Delegates Conference here today.

Pairin, who is also Sabah Deputy Chief Minister, felt that it was too soon for him to decide when he will step down as party president, adding that "we must use our wisdom" when making that decision.

Earlier, he said PBS needed to be wise in selecting candidates from among its young members in the next general election, further explaining that there was more to be considered instead of the age factor.

"It is a fact. There are more young people and there are party members who suggested that young members, who are able, should automatically be fielded as candidates.

"But we still have to screen the potential candidates first based on certain criteria such as talent and experience in being involved with the people.

"Age is not a factor. A candidate may be someone who is still needed by the people in general," he said.

Meanwhile, the party's deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili, who is also Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister, said the party would continue to support Pairin as president as in the past 30 years.

"We are obedient leaders. We have always supported the president to lead the party and we will continue to do so until such a time to pass the baton," he said.