PKR deputy sec-gen says Sabah voters chose local leadership while reinforcing federal partnership model.
PETALING JAYA: The recent Sabah state election results demonstrate voters’ desire for locally-rooted leadership that works collaboratively with the Federal Government, according to PKR deputy secretary-general Aidi Amin Yazid.
In a statement today, Aidi emphasized that the election outcome reflects Sabah’s vision for how Malaysia should function as a federation, rather than representing a rejection of federal partnership.
“Sabah wanted a leadership rooted in its soil. One that understands the rhythm of locals whilst being able to work harmoniously with the Federal Government,” Aidi stated.
The analysis aligns with observations from Dr Phar Kim Beng, a Professor of ASEAN Studies at the International Islamic University of Malaysia, who noted that the results reinforce rather than reject Malaysia’s federal structure.
The strong performance of Parti Warisan in the polls demonstrates what Yazid described as Sabah’s “political awakening.”
The opposition party’s success ensures a balanced presence in the Sabah State Assembly, providing checks and accountability for Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor’s administration.
“Sabahans voted for good governance,” Aidi emphasised, highlighting voters’ prioritization of accountability over partisan loyalty.
The PKR leader acknowledged the significant role of new voters, particularly youth, in shaping the election outcome. These younger Sabahans, having experienced political instability caused by political maneuvering, have given Hajiji a fresh mandate to deliver tangible improvements.
Aidi issued a pointed critique of Peninsular-based politicians who engage with Sabah primarily during election campaigns. Local candidates, he noted, remained receptive to assistance but questioned the sincerity of political guests who appear only during campaign season.
“How often do these Peninsular based politicians visit Sabah to understand the living conditions and frustrations better?” he asked.
Addressing speculation about the results’ implications for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Yazid clarified that the outcome should not be interpreted as outright rejection.
“The outcome in Sabah is not an outright rejection of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, but a reconsideration of working dynamics as equal partners under the Madani government,” he stated.
The statement suggests that while Sabahans remain committed to the federal partnership, they expect to be treated as equal stakeholders rather than subordinate entities.
Yazid concluded by characterising the election as an opportunity for renewal: “Realisation is a process of discovering the cracks and followed by repurposing one’s actions through renewed conviction.”
The results signal that Sabah voters demand authentic engagement, local empowerment, and genuine federal-state collaboration – values that could reshape how national parties approach East Malaysian politics.
