KOTA KINABALU: Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) ushered in a new era of unity in Sabah politics as both coalitions campaigned side by side for PH candidate for Tanjung Aru, Datuk Chan Foong Hin from DAP.
The presence of BN secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and DAP deputy secretary-general Hannah Yeoh together was intended not only to send a message of unity, but also to bolster momentum for Chan’s campaign in the 17th Sabah General Election.
Zambry described the night’s atmosphere, with BN and PH present, as symbolic of the ties fostered under the unity government over the past three years.
“I see two colours grabbing my attention – blue and red. That’s the strength we show in the name of the unity government, where we can gather and unite between blue and red,” he said during his speech today, in the presence of DAP vice-chairman Syahredzan Johan and Putatan Umno deputy chief Reduan Aklee.
“The blue and red, ladies and gentlemen, isn’t the first time… it has been three years already. I’m confident that with the spirit we show, the understanding we have, and our cooperation, we all represent one government – the unity government, the Madani government – for our country, for stability, and for prosperity,” he added.
Zambry said the choice of Chan as Tanjung Aru’s candidate provided a significant advantage to residents, noting that his dual role as Kota Kinabalu MP and Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister would deliver a two-fold benefit to the constituency.
He described the ‘Kasi Chan sama Chan’ campaign tagline as a creative idea and highlighted the candidate’s commitment to continuing public service.
Meanwhile, Hannah described the BN and PH campaign in Tanjung Aru as a “new political moment” for Sabah.
“This is the first time. This campaign reflects what is happening at the federal level, where former rivals now work together for the good of the people. When you combine forces and everyone gives their best, you see results,” she told Bernama, emphasising that the cooperation showcased how the spirit of the Unity Government translates into ground-level activities.
“During the Sabah election, you will see many candidates, but that means nothing if the candidate is substandard. The most important thing is someone with a proven record. Even though he’s a deputy minister, every weekend he makes it a point to be in Sabah. That is the kind of representative you actually want,” she added.
Sabah voters will cast their ballots on Nov 29, with early voting scheduled for Nov 25.
For the latest updates on the 17th Sabah state election, visit Borneo Election Portal at https://prn.bernama.com/sabah/index.php.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
