By Datuk James Ligunjang, Justice of Peace and former Sabah assemblyman for Petagas
KOTA KINABALU: The political landscape in Sabah is charactersed by fragmentation and incoherence, with multiple local and peninsula-based parties vying for influence and power.
This complexity weakens any state government formed in Sabah within the broader context of the political dynamics with Putrajaya.
The presence of numerous political parties leads to a multiplicity of voices and interests, making it challenging to present a united front in negotiations with the federal government. This is particularly true for issues such as Sabah’s rights and autonomy as outlined in the Federal Constitution and the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
A significant concern is that political fragmentation undermines the state’s bargaining power on matters such as power devolution, control over natural resources, immigration, and state rights that are yet to be fully honored as per the spirit of MA63.
It is crucial for Sabah’s leaders to consolidate political power and establish a clearer consensus in order to strengthen the state government’s negotiation position.
However, the broader influence of Malayan political parties in Sabah, where party allegiances can be fluid and coalition politics are the norm, complicates this goal.
Given this situation, Sabahans must navigate this political conundrum with deep consideration both within the state and in relation to the central government in Kuala Lumpur.
It imperative for local parties to have collaborative efforts to present a unified stances on key issues affecting the state’s rights and interests.
This can positively lead to more equitable and beneficial outcomes for the people of Sabah and the generations to come.
“Yang penting jangan undi parti luar dari Sabah.”
Editor: The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of Talantang.
