Sabah DAP is dialing down the hype after UMNO’s Sabah chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin claimed that his party had decided to work with Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the upcoming state election.

Its chairman Phoong Jin Zhe made it clear: there’s been no formal discussion — let alone agreement — between DAP and any political party on election cooperation.

“We acknowledge Bung’s remarks. But so far, DAP Sabah has not entered into any official talks with any party regarding PRN17. Informal meetings between politicians happen all the time — that’s not unusual,” he said in a statement in Kota Kinabalu on Monday. 

His comments came after Bung announced Sabah Umno’s decision to work with Sabah Pakatan Harapan, which DAP is also a component in the political coalition. 

Earlier, Sabah PKR’s information chief reminded Barisan Nasional (BN) to settle its internal tensions with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) before making overtures to PH. 

That friction remains unresolved — and adds a layer of complication to any future alliance talk.

Still, Phoong didn’t close the door entirely. 

He said they are open to dialogue — as long as the goal is policies that benefit the people, not just political expediency.

“Cooperation must be based on a shared agenda that uplifts Sabah. 

“We are prepared to discuss such policies before committing to any form of alliance,” he said. 

He added that the party views any possible cooperation through the lens of Madani — the federal Unity Government’s ethos of good governance and stability — but stressed that the needs of Sabahans come first.

“Political stability after PRN17 is crucial to attract investment and sustain development,” Phoong said, while noting that PH Sabah’s position will be deliberated in an upcoming leadership meeting. – April 14, 2025