Sabah by-elections: BN banks on both new and experienced faces in Kinabatangan, Lamag

KOTA KINABALU (Jan 10): Barisan Nasional (BN) has put forward what it described as credible and service-ready candidates for the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat and the Lamag state constituency, reaffirming its commitment to political stability, sustainable development and the well-being of the people in Sabah.

BN Sabah chairman Datuk Jafry Ariffin said Mohd Naim Kurniawan Moktar has been named as the BN candidate for the Kinabatangan parliamentary constituency, while Mohd Ismail Ayob will contest the Lamag seat.

“As part of the Sabah Unity Government, BN remains committed to ensuring political stability, continuous development and the welfare of the people. The selection of candidates was carried out carefully, taking into account leadership qualities, acceptance by the local community and their ability to serve consistently,” he said in a statement on Saturday.

Jafry said that throughout the 14-day campaign period, BN would adopt a people-oriented and fact-based approach, providing opportunities for voters to engage directly with the candidates and better understand their vision, mission and development plans.

“This approach emphasises active listening, clear delivery of information and concrete solutions to local issues, in line with BN’s principles of effective and forward-looking leadership,” he said.

He added that Mohd Naim brings the energy of a progressive younger generation and is closely attuned to the aspirations of the people, while Mohd Ismail’s experience and deep understanding of the needs of the Lamag community would ensure that the voices of the rakyat continue to be heard in the State Legislative Assembly.

Jafry called on party machinery as well as voters in Kinabatangan and Lamag to give their strong support to the BN candidates in the interest of ensuring continued development, political stability and a more planned and prosperous future.

Mohd Naim is involved in a three-cornered contest for the Kinabatangan parliamentary seat against Goldam H Salangah (Independent) and Datuk Saddi Abdu Rahman (Parti Warisan).

For the Lamag state seat, Mohd Ismail is contesting against Mazliwati Abdul Malek (Parti Warisan).