KOTA KINABALU: Barisan Nasional (BN) is prepared to lead multi-party negotiations to form a new Sabah government once the official results of the state election are announced tomorrow.
BN deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the coalition must secure victory in at least 20 state seats, or more, to be in a position to initiate discussions with other parties.
He also urged the party machinery to work hard to ensure as many of their identified supporters as possible turn out to vote, allowing BN to return and continue its commitment to developing Sabah.
“We want to be the dominant party in this election. As such, we must win more than 20 seats.
“If we win more than 20 seats, we will be in a position to invite our partners to form the government. I hope the machinery works hard if they want to see BN return to govern Sabah.
“I also request that voters give BN another opportunity so we can ensure that governing Sabah becomes our priority, as the state has tremendous potential. I am confident that if we win more than 20 seats, we will be the party to form the government.
“But if we win fewer than 20 seats, we will become a party that waits to be invited to join the formation of the government,” he said when visiting the Media Prima operations room in conjunction with the 17th Sabah general election today.
Mohamad said the campaign period had been calm, indicating that a majority of Sabah voters had already decided which candidate or party they intended to support.
“That is why this Sabah election is very calm. When I was campaigning in Kota Belud, there was no provocation, and based on the body language of voters, they looked ready to cast their ballots tomorrow.
“They have already made their decision early. But what candidates must do now is meet as many voters as possible,” he said.
On BN’s manifesto, Mohamad said it had been well received by Sabah voters, supported by the coalition’s commitment to addressing local issues, including housing.
“Sabah has huge potential. That is why the people of Sabah must place their trust in a party with governing experience. Every item in our manifesto can be fulfilled within five years.
“Housing remains a major issue. Many areas still require public housing, and this can be addressed.
“Sabah has ample land, so we do not see any problem in providing housing areas for less fortunate Sabahans, giving them better living conditions with the government’s assistance,” he added.
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