Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin has dismissed suggestions that Sabah UMNO was on the brink of collapse, hitting back at critics who predicted the party’s demise after a high-profile exodus of leaders.

The Sabah Umno chief was referring to the departure of the party leaders, particularly in December 2018 when then-State liaison chief Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and several others left. 

He insists Sabah UMNO remains strong and warns rivals not to underestimate its influence.

“UMNO is not a trivial party, not a party of simple calculations, not a ‘cheap brand’ party,” he said.

Speaking at Sabah UMNO’s 34th anniversary celebration in Tawau on Sunday, Bung Moktar took aim at Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who was then Sabah UMNO chief, for claiming that the party would be dissolved after he and several others left in December 2018.

“I still hear in my mind the words of the former Sabah UMNO chief, Datuk Seri Hajiji, saying we would dissolve Sabah UMNO. Who gave him the right to dissolve Sabah UMNO? UMNO fights for the people, for the country, for religion. Don’t play with us,” he said.

Bung Moktar dismissed the idea that Sabah UMNO would fade into political obscurity, insisting the party was built on sincere struggles for the people, the country, and religion.

“No one has the right to dissolve Sabah UMNO,” he added.

His comments were seen as a direct rebuke to Hajiji and other former leaders whose departure triggered speculation that Sabah UMNO was finished.

The exodus in December 2018, led by Hajiji, who was then the Sabah UMNO Chairman, raised questions about the party’s future.

However, UMNO President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi denied rumors of dissolution and insisted Sabah UMNO would continue with a restructured leadership.

Bung Moktar highlighted the party’s resilience, recalling its 34-year journey through numerous challenges.

“Thirty-four years is not a short journey. In those 34 years, Sabah UMNO has faced all kinds of struggles, challenges, trials, and obstacles—both bitter and sweet. But believe me, a party built on sincerity and faith in Allah will endure in this blessed land,” he said.

He urged party members to be prepared for the upcoming state election, emphasizing that victory is the only option.

“All Sabah UMNO machinery must work harder and prove that this party is still the strongest in Sabah and accepted by all,” he added.

His defiant remarks signaled that Sabah UMNO is gearing up for a political comeback, countering narratives that the party is a spent force in the state’s political landscape. – February 23, 2025