Frequent Blackouts in Sabah May Become a Hot Issue at Next State Election
PETALING JAYA: Analysts say frequent blackouts experienced in Sabah may turn into a hot issue at the next state election if left unresolved, after a recent occurrence in seven districts and the threat of another potentially engulfing the entire state next year.
The Issue at Hand
Oh Ei Sun of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs said the issue in itself was not new but had become more acute in recent years, with the state suffering frequent drops in voltage – known as brownouts – due to overwhelming demand.
Consequences of Inaction
Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s Bilcher Bala said the issue could pose a major headache for both the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-led state government and the federal unity government, as voters may perceive their inability to handle the issue as weak governance.
Federal Assistance Needed
Although Putrajaya has granted Sabah the autonomy to regulate its own electricity supply, Bilcher said the state still needs federal assistance in terms of finances.
Sabah Electricity Subsidy
Sabah Electricity chairman Wilfred Madius Tangau has appealed to the finance ministry to maintain the RM866 million electricity subsidy given to the utility company. The Energy Commission of Sabah had informed Tangau that the subsidy may be scrapped this year due to fiscal constraints.
Impact on Daily Lives
Bilcher said the issue directly affects the daily lives of all Sabahans and may affect their trust in the capability and accountability of both state and federal governments. Opposition parties could then exploit the issue in hopes of gaining their votes.
Conclusion
The frequent blackouts in Sabah have the potential to become a major issue at the next state election if left unresolved. It is crucial for both the state and federal governments to take concrete measures to resolve this issue to alleviate negative sentiments among voters.
FAQs
Q: What is the cause of the frequent blackouts in Sabah?
A: The state is suffering frequent drops in voltage – known as brownouts – due to overwhelming demand.
Q: What is the impact of the blackouts on daily lives?
A: The issue directly affects the daily lives of all Sabahans and may affect their trust in the capability and accountability of both state and federal governments.
Q: What is the solution to this issue?
A: The state and federal governments need to work together to resolve this issue. Sabah Electricity chairman Wilfred Madius Tangau has appealed to the finance ministry to maintain the RM866 million electricity subsidy given to the utility company.
Q: What is the potential consequence of inaction?
A: The issue could drive voters to vote for change at the next state election, affecting national political stability.