BARISAN Nasional (BN) has signalled its willingness to cooperate with the formation of Sabah’s new state government under Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, offering support to ensure the state remains on a path of stability, prosperity and sustained development.
BN secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir expressed gratitude to party machinery nationwide for their tireless efforts during the 17th Sabah General Election.
“BN also expresses its utmost gratitude to all party machinery from across the country who worked tirelessly from the first day of campaigning until the very last moment,” he said.
Zambry added that the dedication shown reflected the party’s loyalty and commitment to the people.
The party also extended appreciation to voters who entrusted BN candidates with their support, acknowledging the democratic process and the electorate’s mandate.
“This state election reflects a mature democratic process, and BN accepts the decision made by the people with an open heart and full respect for their voice and mandate,” he said.
In the election, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) secured 29 of the 73 contested seats, followed by Parti Warisan with 25 seats. BN won six seats, while five Independents, three from UPKO, two from Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR), and one each from Perikatan Nasional, Parti Kesejahteraan Demokratik Masyarakat (KDM) and Pakatan Harapan also claimed representation.
However, Parti Gagasan Rakyat Youth has urged the public to reject BN’s involvement in the GRS-led state government.
In a statement, the group noted that the GRS Plus government already exceeds the simple majority required to form the administration, with its composition strengthened further by six Nominated Sabah State Assembly members.
“The people of Sabah have sent a clear signal by rejecting BN's presence in the state government, and any attempt to deny the will of the people is deemed inappropriate,” the statement said.
The youth group also criticised BN for its previous refusal to cooperate with GRS and for launching aggressive political attacks against the party and Chief Minister Hajiji Noor’s leadership during the election campaign.
“Therefore, it is unreasonable for them to now come forward with demands to be included in the government,” it added, referring to BN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s proposal of a cabinet line-up.
The statement emphasised that the current composition of Assemblymen within the GRS Plus government is stable and sufficient to continue Sabah’s development agenda without including parties previously rejected by voters.
The 17th Sabah General Election concluded with BN securing six seats while Parti Warisan claimed 25, reflecting a competitive political landscape in the state. - December 1, 2025
