Local parties like STAR well-equipped to represent Sabahans

Borneo Post

a day ago

Kenny Chua
KOTA KINABALU (Aug 15): The upcoming 17th Sabah state election (PRN17) is set to showcase the growing strength and credibility of local-based parties, with Parti Solidariti Tanah Airku (STAR) asserting its readiness to represent the diverse voices of Sabahans — including those in Chinese-majority constituencies.
STAR Deputy President Datuk Kenny Chua said voters in Sabah, particularly in urban and Chinese-majority areas, are increasingly placing their trust in local parties that are better attuned to the state's unique political and social fabric.
'The winds have changed. Sabahans, including the Chinese community, are increasingly looking to local parties that can genuinely represent their voices and aspirations,' Chua said.
His remarks come in response to Sabah DAP Deputy Chairman Datuk Chan Foong Hin's recent claim that the party is confident of winning between eight to ten seats, including defending its six constituencies and reclaiming Sri Tanjong and Elopura.
Chua cautioned against relying too heavily on past voting trends, stressing that the political landscape has evolved.
'Voter sentiment today is driven by real engagement, accountability, and local understanding,' he said.
He added that STAR is not only preparing to contest in more constituencies, but is also specifically targeting several with strong Chinese voter bases — a reflection of growing grassroots support across communities.
'This is not just a strategic move. It's a direct response to what we believe is the people's call for more grounded, Sabah-based leadership. Local parties like STAR are fully capable of championing the interests of all Sabahans — Chinese included,' he said.
Chua noted that local-based parties are increasingly seen as more equipped to address on-the-ground concerns, as they are not tied to Peninsular-based political interests and agendas. As Sabah heads into what is expected to be a highly competitive election, the contest will likely spotlight the rising role of state-rooted parties that promise inclusive and responsive leadership grounded in Sabah's diverse reality.