KOTA KINABALU: Barisan Nasional (BN) Chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi defended his criticism of the “Sabah for Sabahan” slogan, calling it narrow-minded and divisive.
“We should not harbor strong regionalist feelings,” he said at the Sepanggar Umno Gerak 17 event on Saturday.
Zahid stressed Malaysia was built on unity and interdependence, urging leaders not to adopt divisive mindsets.
He clarified his stance wasn’t to dismiss local concerns but to encourage broader national solidarity.
On political cooperation ahead of Sabah’s 17th state election, Zahid said BN-PH discussions are ongoing. He noted global trends show coalition governments are now the norm, and no party should assume it can win alone.
“Even Umno, the largest party, had to form alliances after GE15,” he said, cautioning against solo attempts in Sabah.
Zahid added Sabah Umno has autonomy but cooperation decisions remain open for negotiation. He expressed confidence in Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin to lead a broad coalition.
As for suspended Sabah Umno leaders, Zahid said their candidacy would depend on Bung Moktar’s judgment.
