Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) has formally announced its intention to work with Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the upcoming state election.

Sabah BN chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin said they made the decision during a Sabah Umno retreat in Penang recently.  

“Sabah Umno has decided to work with Pakatan Harapan,” Bung said during his Hari Raya open house at his residence in Kota Kinabalu on Sunday night.

Bung who is also Sabah Umno chief clarified, however, that no formal talks have been held with PH so far, but noted further discussions are expected as the election approaches.

Bung noted growing pressure within his party and the need for clarity ahead of campaign season when explaining the timing of his announcement. 

“Barisan Nasional has grassroots support. Our grassroots need to know. They cannot wait too long. The longer I hold, (the likeliness) we will be split.” 

When asked about the possibility of working with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah, Bung replied, “There are many parties now… let’s wait.”

But when Warisan was mentioned, he said, “Whichever party we feel can contribute to a win, God willing.” 

Bung also said he would defend UMNO’s Lamag assemblyman, signaling his commitment to support incumbents in the coming polls.

He criticised Sabah’s long-standing leadership under local-based parties, saying they had failed to deliver meaningful development.

“Sabah has been ruled by local parties for years, but we’ve not progressed—some would say we’ve regressed,” he said.

He stressed that today’s UMNO Sabah lineup is made up of mostly new leaders.

“Except for Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak, all of us are new faces,” Bung said. “We carry a high level of commitment to serve.”

He pledged to prioritise solving Sabah’s persistent infrastructure issues, including water, roads, and electricity. 

“If we win but don’t deliver, the people will kick us out,” he added.

When asked whether BN would be the dominant force in any future coalition, Bung did not respond to the label, saying only: “Still in negotiation.” 

The Sabah state election is widely expected in the coming months, although no date has been officially announced. – April 13, 2025