THE formation of Sabah’s state government following the closure of the 17th Election polling centres is set to dominate political attention as early results trickle in, with initial indicators likely to signal whether a new administration can be established with a clear majority or if coalition negotiations will be necessary.
Universiti Malaysia Sabah political analyst Dr Syahruddin Awang Ahmad said the first observation of significance is which party or coalition leads in early vote counts, before assessing the ability to reach the simple majority of 37 seats.
“After we see who is leading in early counts, the next focus is to evaluate whether coalitions like Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) can maintain or achieve the 37-seat majority as in the previous term.
“If no bloc reaches that number, we enter the stage of political negotiations between parties,” he told Buletin TV3.
Dr Syahruddin outlined a three-tier framework for analysing the post-election landscape.
The first level identifies which parties or coalitions are ahead in early counts, providing an initial picture of voter support across urban, semi-urban, and rural constituencies.
The second examines whether the main blocs can consolidate or regain the majority, including the continuation of previous cooperation formulas if the numbers fabour them.
The third considers the possibility of a hung assembly, opening the door for negotiations with smaller parties, new entrants, or independent candidates to form a stable government.
“The early indicators are not just about who is ahead, but also whether trends remain consistent across different voting zones,” he said.
Dr Syahruddin noted that final results are likely to stabilise late tonight or in the early hours of tomorrow due to several hotly contested seats that typically influence the overall balance of power.“
The outcome of this election also reflects public evaluation of governance and state stability over the past term. Ultimately, whatever combination emerges, the priority is a government with a clear mandate of at least 37 seats to ensure administration proceeds without uncertainty,” he added. - November 29, 2025
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