DATUK Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged party members in Sabah to be open-minded and flexible when considering political alliances for the state election, emphasising the need for strategic adaptability amid changing political dynamics.
The deputy prime minister clarified his earlier statement on Umno’s desire to be the dominant force in Sabah, explaining that dominance does not mean exclusion and that cooperation with other political groups should not be ruled out.
“Not dominance, but dominant. I am very open to building cooperation with local parties. I said the door should not be closed tightly, but also not opened too wide,” Zahid said when met by reporters in Kota Kinabalu.
Speaking at the Sabah Umno’s 34th anniversary in Tawau on Sunday, Zahid had indicated that the state chapter must be flexible on forming alliances ahead of the Sabah election.
He however was ambiguous when indicating that the party must be a dominant force in the state election.
When asked further, Zahid said his statements indicated that Sabah Umno must remain flexible and be willing to hold discussions with all political groups, including Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), despite differences in political strategies and approaches.
“We are very open to forming alliances. We are negotiating with all parties. The important thing is to prioritise the people so that political issues can be resolved in the best way.
“Leaders must be more open-minded and open-hearted for the sake of the people. Don’t think only about the interests of one party,” he said.
His veiled remarks signal a strategic shift towards political pragmatism, saying that political stability at the federal level at present should also be felt by the people of Sabah.
Zahid’s comments come in the wake of Sabah Umno Chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin’s statement dismissing the possibility of cooperation with GRS, reflecting internal differences within Umno on how to approach alliances.
While Bung Moktar took a firm stance against working with GRS, Zahid hinted at the “flexible approach”, suggesting that no options should be off the table as Umno navigates Sabah’s complex political landscape.
Zahid was also made aware of recent reports that 22 of the 25 state party division chiefs opposed the cooperation with GRS when he said this.
Zahid wants Sabah Umno to be a more rational and adaptable political force, as well as being capable of navigating alliances that serve the best interests of the people. - February 24, 2025.
