Kota Kinabalu: DAP Sec-Gen Anthony Loke reiterated that Pakatan Harapan (PH) seeks to serve as a constructive, value-adding partner in any future coalition government, assuring Sabahans that PH remains firmly committed to the state’s aspirations.
He assured that the PH-led federal government never regarded Sabah as an adversary.
“I want to reassure that the PH federal government is a Sabah-friendly government. There is no reason for us to be in conflict with Sabah,” said Loke.
He stressed that as a national party, DAP views Sabah’s development as central to Malaysia’s overall progress.
“Sabah’s progress is Malaysia’s progress. We share the aspirations of Sabahans because Sabahans are Malaysians.”
Addressing PH’s role in the state elections, Loke clarified that the coalition is not entering the polls with a chief ministerial candidate. Instead, PH aims to function as a bridge between the Sabah state government and Putrajaya, ensuring strong cooperation and smooth implementation of development policies.
“Our role is to ensure a harmonious relationship between the state and federal governments, especially on key matters such as the 40 per cent revenue entitlement,” he said.
Loke urged Sabah voters, particularly in urban constituencies where DAP and PH are contesting, to vote strategically, and reflect on the risks if an anti-federal coalition takes power.
“If a state government that is totally against the federal government comes to power, the next five years will be full of politicking, arguments and emotional rhetoric. That will not solve Sabah’s long-term issues.”
He added confrontational politics would only slow development projects and hinder progress for the people. He was believed to be referring to the period when the ruling Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) Government challenged the federal government which affected businesses and development for nine years.
Many of the problems in Sabah today from blackouts to water shortages stemmed from that period.
While acknowledging that Sabahans often favour local parties, Loke said it remains important to have representation from national parties that form the federal administration.
“There needs to be balance. Having PH representatives in Sabah will create a win-win situation ensuring strong federal support and a stable state government.
“As the campaign enters its crucial phase, I call on voters to consider the long-term impact of their decisions, especially in the seats where PH is contesting.”
