KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government’s recently announced Group Insurance Scheme is a “cheap political tool” aimed at winning votes ahead of the upcoming state election, says Sabah Umno.
Sabah Umno assistant secretary Alfian Sambas said the scheme, along with the RM300 monthly financial aid, appears to be an election gimmick rather than a genuine effort to improve the lives of the people.
“It is highly questionable that such assistance is being introduced now, just as the state prepares for elections. Why was this not announced earlier during the government’s term?” he asked.
While Sabah Umno does not oppose any policy that offers real, long-term benefits to the people, Alfian stressed that such initiatives must be financially sustainable.
He warned that if the scheme only lasts for two to three years without a proper financial plan, it serves merely as a vote-buying strategy.
Alfian also criticised the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah-led government for failing to address fundamental issues affecting Sabahans, despite claiming to have a strong financial position.
“Basic problems like clean water, stable electricity, and proper roads, especially in rural areas, remain unresolved. Yet these are the issues that truly affect the daily lives of the people,” he said in a statement on Saturday (April 12).
Alfian added that business owners continue to suffer losses due to recurring disruptions in basic utilities, and many residents still face unsafe road conditions.
He further questioned who would truly benefit from the scheme, demanding transparency on whether it genuinely helps the people or simply enriches the appointed insurance company.
“The people of Sabah must not be used as pawns in political games. We urge voters to think wisely and not be swayed by temporary handouts that appear only during election season,” he said.
He said the state’s well-being should be built on sincerity, genuine priorities, and sustainable planning, not political gimmicks.
