Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) is open to a democratic clash with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) in the coming state election, but says it won’t enter into alliances just to prop up weak and insincere governments.
Its Chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin said Sabah BN does not need to wait for signals from other parties before stating its position or taking action.
“The statement reflects the normal dynamics in a multi-party democracy, where different players operate in the same space but with different foundations of legitimacy and structure,” he said.
He was responding to GRS Deputy Secretary-General Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, who had voiced support for a straight fight between GRS and BN in the coming Sabah polls — mirroring Bung’s earlier suggestion for both coalitions to go head-to-head at the polls.
“If viewed positively, it is a healthy sign of competition in ideas and policy,” Bung said.
However, he stressed that cooperation must be built on trust and honesty, not just on paper agreements.
“BN does not reject political cooperation outright. But we will only work with those who are honest, not just in signing agreements, but in implementing policies, respecting the role of partners and upholding the integrity of the political system,” he said.
“Political cooperation without honesty is like building a house on mud — it may stand for a while, but it will eventually collapse under pressure. BN has learned this lesson, and so have the people.”
Bung said past alliances that lacked sincerity only led to weak, inconsistent governments that failed to inspire public confidence.
“To GRS, if you are truly ready for a democratic contest, we welcome it,” he said.
“Clashing at the ballot box is not something to fear. It is the best way to prove who really holds the people’s trust, based on genuine strength, not borrowed support or shortcuts.”
Bung also called on Sabahans, especially younger and politically aware voters, to reassess their choices as the State heads into its next election.
“Sabah BN does not come with mere slogans. We have a track record of leading the State towards development. We have also been tested.
“ Now, we return with the determination to improve, not to repeat.
“In politics, legitimacy doesn’t come from the number of seats alone, but from the people’s trust in our sincerity.”
