KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Pakatan Harapan has not yet finalised its position or strategy for the upcoming Sabah state election, as internal discussions among the coalition’s component parties are still ongoing.
Sabah DAP chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe said that while frequent meetings are held between Pakatan leaders, many key decisions, including potential alliances and seat allocations, remain open for discussion.
“As of now, we have not reached any final decisions. We are still assessing the political landscape and developments on the ground,” he told reporters at a joint development agreement between Qhazanah Sabah Bhd and Bina Indah Development Sdn Bhd, and the launch of Q-SME Halal Industrial Park on Monday (June 16).
Echoing Sabah Pakatan chief Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, Phoong said Sabah Pakatan will engage in talks with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), taking a cautious approach before firming up its strategy.
Mustapha, who is also the Deputy Higher Education Minister and Sepanggar MP, had said earlier that Sabah Pakatan needs “more time to reassess the situation” before deciding on electoral cooperation, particularly with GRS.
He noted that statements made by Pakatan secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution and GRS secretary-general Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun suggest preliminary discussions may take place, but stressed that Sabah Pakatan’s leadership would continue to evaluate matters “day by day.”
“Two years ago, we decided that GRS is the leader of the state government. That is what we accepted two years ago. So, I think, as far as (Sabah) Pakatan is concerned, we need to look into what situation unfolds every day,” Phoong said.
He noted that the Sabah political landscape is unique and constantly evolving.
“We want to ensure that any decisions we make are in the best interest of the people and reflect the values and aspirations of Pakatan,” Phoong said.
He said the coalition’s four main component parties in Sabah, namely DAP, PKR, Amanah, and United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko), are working closely together, holding regular dialogues and maintaining good communication.
“The unity and cohesion within Sabah Pakatan are strong. We may have different views, but we are able to sit down together and discuss them constructively. That is a positive sign,” Phoong said.
He also reiterated DAP’s stand to focus more on policies rather than political manoeuvring, stating that the party’s long-term vision for Sabah includes economic transformation, infrastructure development, and youth employment.
“At the end of the day, the people will judge us based on what we deliver, not just who we align with.”
Sabah is expected to hold its state election by the end of this year, with the term of the current GRS-led government nearing its expiry.
