Sabah BN mulls inclusive power-sharing formula for fairer representation
KOTA KINABALU (June 22): Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) is exploring a new power-sharing formula aimed at ensuring fair political representation among the state's diverse communities.
Sabah Umno treasurer Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak said discussions are ongoing within the coalition to refine this approach.
'I would also like to mention the power-sharing system that BN is currently exploring. It's not just about power-sharing — we are also looking at political accommodation,' he said.
Salleh stressed that no single party should act as the dominant force within the coalition.
'We should engage in discussions that take into account the needs of both Muslim and non-Muslim Bumiputera. We need a formula that can satisfy everyone. We are committed to addressing this,' he said, after officiating the Sabah Umno Kota Kinabalu division meeting.
He added that BN is working on a draft commitment for the people of Sabah to tackle the state's fundamental issues — an effort he personally pledges to lead.
When asked about the specifics of the proposed formula, Salleh said discussions with coalition partners are still ongoing but pointed to previous models as reference.
'Looking back at our past, we had a formula that considered both Muslim and non-Muslim Bumiputera,' he said.
Recalling his tenure as Sabah Chief Minister, Salleh cited the education sector as an example of successfully balanced representation.
'When I was Chief Minister, I introduced a scholarship quota system approved by the Cabinet — 40 per cent for Muslim Bumiputera, 40 per cent for non-Muslim Bumiputera, and 20 per cent for non-Bumiputera.
'However, despite the quota, everything remained merit-based. This is an example of what we have done before,' he explained.
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