Sabah political leaders urged to avoid fuelling sentiments
KOTA KINABALU: Political leaders should not fuel deep-seated sentiments under the guise of reform as it may harm the people, says Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin ( pic ).
He said that unity among Sabah leaders is welcome, provided it is based on clear policies, historical awareness, and administrative stability.
"Political reform in Sabah should not sow seeds of hatred, because in the end, it is the people who bear the consequences, not the politicians," he said.
Bung Moktar said that Sabah's political stability and development began only after Barisan Nasional took over in 1994, following years of local party disputes from 1963 to 1994.
"Despite the state's rich resources, it lacked structured development plans due to constant government changes. Rural areas were neglected, infrastructure remained poor and poverty increased," he said.
He added that under Barisan's 24-year administration, Sabah saw the construction of universities, hospitals, roads and the Pan Borneo Highway, thanks to federal-state cooperation and a stable system.
While Sabah Umno supports fair power-sharing, party reform and leadership integrity, Bung Moktar said it is crucial to stay grounded in facts and avoid past mistakes.
"Politics is not about sentiment and emotion. It must be managed with wisdom. It is difficult for a state government to progress if its relationship with the federal government remains strained," he said.
Bung Moktar reiterated Sabah Umno's commitment to strengthening political stability, upholding Sabah's rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), and ensuring fair treatment within the Federation of Malaysia.
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