SABAH’S 17th general election has produced a striking realignment in the state’s political landscape, with voters overwhelmingly backing local parties over Peninsular-based coalitions.
Preliminary analysis of the official results shows that Sabah-based parties secured 60 of the 73 state constituencies, representing 82.19 per cent of the assembly.
In contrast, Peninsular parties such as Barisan Nasional (BN), Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) managed to claim only eight seats, or 10.95 per cent—an outcome that underscores their diminishing influence in the state.
Independent candidates also made a notable showing, capturing five seats, or 6.8 per cent, suggesting that a segment of voters preferred individuals over party machinery.
Taken together, the results reflect a clear shift in voter sentiment, with Sabahans demonstrating a strong preference for parties rooted in local identity and issues.
The trend highlights what appears to be a growing desire for governance led by those seen as more attuned to the state’s specific needs.
The official tally places Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) firmly in the lead with 29 seats, delivering the coalition its strongest performance to date.
Warisan followed closely with 25 seats, while BN won six. Pertubuhan Kinabalu Progresif Bersatu (UPKO) secured three seats, and Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) obtained two.
Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM), PH and PN each won a single seat, while independent candidates claimed five.
For many political observers, the result amounts to a decisive endorsement of Sabah-centric politics, with local parties emerging not merely as alternatives but as the principal vehicles of political aspiration in the state. - November 30, 2025
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