BARISAN Nasional (BN) has vowed to restore Sabah’s former glory through its “Bikin Balik Sabah” (Rebuild Sabah) movement as the coalition gears up for the 17th Sabah State Election (PRN).
The campaign, anchored on development, unity and political stability, aims to rekindle the state’s economic dynamism and public confidence in BN’s long-standing record of governance.
BN chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the coalition’s renewed spirit and confidence in Sabah signalled that the people still trusted BN’s proven ability to deliver progress and stability.
“We want ‘Bikin Balik Sabah’ not merely as a slogan, but as a commitment to revitalise the state’s economy, create more job opportunities, and attract investments that will bring prosperity to the people,” he said at the launch of BN Sabah’s election machinery here on Saturday.
Present were BN deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, BN vice-chairmen Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong and Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, BN secretary-general Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, BN treasurer-general Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Sabah BN chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Deputy Prime Minister and UMNO president, said BN Sabah’s leadership was now more united and ready to face the state polls, determined to correct past shortcomings, particularly in economic and social development.
He announced that 80 per cent of BN’s candidates would be new faces, including a significant number of women, youth and Puteri UMNO representatives, as part of efforts to rejuvenate the party’s spirit in the state.
“The people of Sabah need a government capable of addressing basic issues such as clean water supply, frequent power disruptions, and the high unemployment rate of 7.7 per cent — the highest in Malaysia,” he said.
“After seven years of challenges and slander, UMNO and BN Sabah are rising again with renewed vigour. Sabah for Sabahans, and BN Sabah is the platform for all layers of society in this state,” he added.
Ahmad Zahid also cited BN’s proven track record, noting that Sabah’s poverty rate dropped from 23.4 per cent in 2009 to 14.8 per cent in 2018 during the coalition’s previous administration. Household income and rural infrastructure, he said, also improved significantly during that period.
He urged BN’s election machinery at all levels to go to the ground, engage directly with communities, and use clear, relatable language to rebuild public confidence.
“Even if our opponents have money, promises and offers, the hearts, minds and souls of Sabahans remain with Barisan Nasional. Take their aid if offered, but vote for BN for Sabah’s future,” he told the crowd.
BN Sabah chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, meanwhile, said the coalition was in full readiness for the upcoming election and determined to regain the people’s trust while ensuring political stability in the state.
“The dissolution of the 16th State Legislative Assembly gives the people an opportunity to choose a government that can bring well-being and progress to Sabah. BN is not here to make empty promises, but to restore joy and strengthen welfare and development after the election,” he said.
Bung added that BN Sabah’s leadership now operated with greater cohesion and focus, united in purpose and intent to lead the state once more.
“The real strength of BN lies in the unity and loyalty of its machinery at all levels. We must work as one team. This is not about who the candidate is or where they come from, but about who can win and serve the people. If we stay united, God willing, BN will once again govern Sabah,” he said.
He called on party workers to strengthen grassroots efforts, intensify outreach activities and engage closely with the people to understand their real needs.
“Our struggle is not for personal gain but for the people and Sabah’s future. With the strength of our machinery, I am confident BN can rebuild public trust and resolve key issues such as water, electricity and infrastructure,” he said.
“If given the mandate, our government will focus on addressing the people’s problems and ensuring balanced development across all areas of the state,” he added. - November 9, 2025
