GEORGE TOWN: Parti Warisan Sabah has kicked off its presence in Penang with 1,500 members registered, says Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.

       The party president said Warisan is registered on the multiracial concept of Malaysia and added that that welfare of all races will be looked after.

       "We are doing it not just by words but we will ensure that the welfare of all races is not overlooked. Malaysia belongs to all races,” he said on stage during a dinner with leaders and party members at the Sri Aman Food Court in Paya Terubong on Monday (Dec 20).

       Shafie added that the party intends to quit being in the opposition, and seeks to govern the country and serve the people after the next general election.

       "We are not here for positions and to obtain contracts to projects. In the 80s, we were known as a dynamic country capable of learning from others. To put back Malaysia as a competitive nation, we need to be united,” he said.

       He added that despite being seen as a Sabah-based party, the fact is that Warisan's constitution allows it to contest in all 222 seats nationwide.

       As for contesting for seats in Penang, Shafie said the party will study before deciding on seats with potential.

       He also said the party is positive that membership numbers will continue growing as there are Umno members in the state who may step in to support Warisan.

       Earlier, the party's Penang coordinator Goh Choon Keong handed over the membership forms to Shafie.

       Goh said the memberships were collected within a month.

       "We believe many more are eager to register but yet to do so because they do not have the forms. With such support, we see new hope with this party," said Goh.

       About 200 people were present at the dinner, among them, Warisan vice-president Datuk Junz Wong and Warisan supreme council member Nic Chak.