Bowing deer and snapping crocodiles

By Philip Golingai

THERE is a type of Sabah politician who is described as a payau. Payau in Sabah refers to the sambar deer.

“Don’t underestimate X, makin dia menunduk, makin dia menanduk (the more he bows his head, the more he will headbutt),” a seasoned politician told me during a sake- inspired dinner in Kota Kinabalu last week.

Save 30% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
Philip Golingai

Philip Golingai

Next In Columnists
Why Western Carmakers Are Losing Ground to China
Brain circulation or brain drain: Malaysia needs better metrics
Reaping timeless lesson on gratitude for our food
A weekend nobody took control – missed chances in Premier League
Artificial Intelligence Malaysia (AIM): A Digital Silk Road for All Malaysians
Why aren’t we angry anymore?
How not to get shortchanged in the bedroom
No more ‘Game of Thrones’
Lessons from Iran for Malaysia
A tale of two nails

Trending in Opinion

Others Also Read

Load more

Copyright © 1995- Star Media Group Berhad [197101000523 (10894-D)]

Best viewed on Chrome browsers.