Realignment of Political Alliances Sets Sights on Revitalizing Sabah’s Development
In a significant move, the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) has announced its decision to cooperate with Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the upcoming 17th Sabah state election, aiming to establish a new government capable of lifting Sabah from its current position as one of the most underdeveloped states in the country.
A New Chapter for Sabah’s Development
According to Sabah UMNO Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, the decision was made considering the need for mutual understanding between the federal and state levels in developing Sabah. He emphasized that Sabah continues to be plagued by long-standing poverty, with eight of the poorest districts being Tongod, Beluran, Pitas, Kinabatangan, Kota Marudu, Tuaran, Ranau, and Lahad Datu.
A Critical Juncture for Sabah’s Future
"It is crucial, in my view, that Sabah undergoes a new transformation to truly lift itself from being one of the most underdeveloped states," said Bung Moktar. "Undoubtedly, the upcoming state election will be very interesting, and we may witness the formation of a new government focused on rescuing Sabah from the crisis of poverty."
Building a Stronger Alliance
Bung Moktar revealed that discussions to form and strengthen the BN-PH alliance are ongoing among party leaders to ensure that preparations for the election can be jointly initiated. "This step is to ensure that Sabah gets a strong government that can support the people’s aspirations for developing the state," he said.
UMNO’s Commitment to Sabah’s Development
In September, UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that UMNO had decided to work with PH for the Sabah state election and agreed that Sabah BN would follow the cooperation formula used at the federal level, extending it to the Land Below the Wind. Bung Moktar stressed, however, that Sabah UMNO and BN remain open to working with any local parties in the upcoming election.
Conclusion
The realignment of political alliances in Sabah sets the stage for a new chapter in the state’s development. As the election approaches, it is crucial for all parties to come together and work towards a shared goal of lifting Sabah from its current position. As the saying goes, "unity is strength."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of UMNO’s cooperation with PH in the Sabah state election?
A: The purpose is to establish a new government capable of lifting Sabah from its current position as one of the most underdeveloped states in the country.
Q: Why did UMNO decide to cooperate with PH?
A: Because of the need for mutual understanding between the federal and state levels in developing Sabah, as well as the need to rescue the state from the crisis of poverty.
Q: What is the outcome expected from this cooperation?
A: A strong government that can support the people’s aspirations for developing the state and lift Sabah from its current position.