KOTA KINABALU, Oct 15 — Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) is confident that the state’s long-standing water problems can be resolved within three years if the coalition is given the mandate to govern, said Sabah BN Chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday night, Bung described the issue as straightforward but said it requires strong political will and cooperation between the state and federal governments.
“The water problem can be solved within three years. Roads, too… they just need pressure. For example, the Pan Borneo Highway. The state government must push the Federal government to expedite funding,” he said.
Bung said Sabah Umno is ready with 6,044 branches and 614,994 members mobilised to face the 17th Sabah State Election (PRN17). Of this, 474,252 members are registered voters.
He said all seat distributions and candidates have been finalised, with about 80pc being new and young faces from diverse backgrounds.
“Our candidates include youths, women and professionals, reflecting the renewal and inclusiveness we want to bring into Sabah BN,” Bung said.
He said Sabah Umno will soon hold a joint launch to unveil its election machinery, manifesto and list of candidates under the Sabah Development Plan 1, which focuses on economic recovery, education and infrastructure development.
Among its key proposals is the establishment of a State Prosperity Fund (Tabung Kemakmuran Negeri) to ensure Sabah’s wealth directly benefits its people.
On cooperation, Bung reaffirmed that Sabah BN will continue its alliance with Pakatan Harapan (PH) for the sake of political stability and the people’s interests.
“We believe this partnership provides a balanced formula between grassroots strength and reformist ideals, unlike GRS, which is now facing a credibility crisis after STAR and SAPP left the coalition,” he said.
BN is expected to contest around 48 state seats, though Bung described the political landscape as “dynamic.”
“Negotiations with PH and GRS are largely settled, but we are fine-tuning a few details. The final announcement will be made soon,” he said.
At the Federal-level, Bung confirmed that the status of two MPs, Datuk Ir. Shahelmey Yahya (Putatan) and Datuk Andi Muhammad Suryady Bandi (Kalabakan) is being reviewed by BN headquarters.
He said disciplinary action could be taken under the anti-hopping law, which automatically disqualifies representatives who switch parties.
“The party HQ will take the necessary action. Under the anti-hopping law, anyone who leaves the party loses their position.
He stressed that Sabah Umno remains disciplined, united and aligned with the people’s aspirations.
“Sabah Umno is ready to lead the state again. We are with the people, always,” Bung said. — Daily Express
