Support local parties in the next Sabah election ― LDP chief

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 23): Sabah should capitalise on growing unity and political maturity among its people in the upcoming parliamentary election by supporting local-based parties, enabling the state to stand alongside Sarawak as a strong East Malaysian bloc, said Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) president Datuk Chin Su Phin.

Chin said consolidating support behind Sabah-based parties would help the state secure greater autonomy and development, in line with the rights enshrined under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Speaking at the party’s Chinese New Year luncheon with the media here on Monday, Chin noted that the political landscape in Peninsular Malaysia was becoming increasingly complex and unpredictable.

He also warned of the growing influence of Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) in the peninsula.

“The political situation in Peninsular Malaysia is changing rapidly, and PAS is gaining significant traction.

“It would not be surprising if they were to form the government there one day. This is a warning sign we cannot afford to ignore,” he said.

Chin added that Sabah and Sarawak, which are safeguarded under MA63, could build a brighter and more prosperous future if East Malaysians fully harness the strength of local parties in the next parliamentary election.

While acknowledging disappointment over the outcome of the 2025 Sabah state election, he said the results should also be seen from a broader perspective, pointing to what he described as increasing political maturity among voters in the state.

According to him, voters from various communities―including Chinese, Kadazan-Dusun and Malay groups―had united in support of local parties.

“This is a very positive development.

“Sabahans are no longer easily swayed by Peninsula-based parties but are instead prioritising their own interests and identity,” he said.

Chin also urged Sabahans to maintain this momentum by giving their full support to the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) coalition, which he said represents and champions the interests of the people of Sabah.

On the state government’s recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) last year and allocation of RM5 million in scholarships for UEC students, he said the initiative was a meaningful step forward, although it could have been better publicised.

“Nevertheless, the state government has walked the talk by officially recognising UEC and backing it up with action and funding.

“That is a concrete step forward for our Chinese community,” he said.