KOTA KINABALU: The Pakatan Harapan-led federal government has never regarded Sabah as an adversary, says DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke.
Loke, who is also Transport Minister, said Pakatan seeks to serve as a constructive and value-adding partner in any future coalition government, assuring Sabahans that the coalition remains firmly committed to the state's aspirations.
"I want to reassure Sabahans that the Pakatan federal government is a Sabah-friendly government. There is no reason for us to be in conflict with Sabah," he said in a statement on Sunday (Nov 16).
He said Pakatan is not entering the 17th Sabah Election with a chief ministerial candidate but instead aims to function as a bridge between the Sabah government and Putrajaya, ensuring strong cooperation and the smooth implementation of development policies.
"Our role is to ensure a harmonious relationship between the state and federal governments, especially on key matters such as the 40% revenue entitlement (for Sabah)," he said.
Therefore, he urged Sabah voters, particularly those in urban constituencies where DAP and Pakatan are contesting, to vote strategically and consider the long-term impact of their decisions as well as the risks if an anti-federal coalition takes power.
"If a state government that is totally against the federal government comes to power, the next five years will be full of politicking, arguments and emotional rhetoric. That will not solve Sabah's long-term issues," he said.
He said confrontational politics would only slow development projects and hinder progress for the people.
Loke said although Sabahans often favour local parties, it remained important to have representation from national parties that form the federal administration.
"There needs to be balance. Having Pakatan representatives in Sabah will create a win-win situation, ensuring strong federal support and a stable state government," he added.
Sabah voters will cast their ballots on Nov 29, with early voting taking place on Nov 25. – Bernama
