Tandek rep quits PBS to join Warisan

Tandek assemblyperson Anita Baranting today left Parti Bersatu Sabah – of which she has been a member since its formation 34 years ago – to join Warisan.

According to reports, Anita said she made the decision as Warisan is the ruling party in Sabah, and because she wants to help people enjoy continued development.

Free Malaysia Today quoted her as saying that her resolve to join the party strengthened after noticing its "sincerity" in fighting for the people after last year's general election.

The two-term assemblyperson is the first PBS representative, and the eighth from BN, to join Warisan since GE14.

Anita also announced her resignation from all party posts – including the Wanita chief post, which she held for six years.

About 50 former Tandek members from MCA, Gerakan and Umno also joined Warisan with Anita today.

Sabah Chief Minister and Warisan president Mohd Shafie Apdal, who received Anita's application form, dubbed her move a "historic event," reported FMT.

With her move, PBS is now left with five state seats and one parliamentary seat, while Warisan commands half of the 60-seat state assembly.

Warisan allies PKR, DAP and Upko have two, six, and four seats respectively.