KOTA KINABALU: Two youth groups have raised concern over the tone of Warisan president Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal’s campaign speeches, which they described as increasingly hostile and unhelpful to young voters.
Sabah Electronic Sports Association president Cheoh High Zhi said Shafie’s delivery risked shaping young voters’ views in a negative way.
He said the speeches often portrayed Warisan as the only party capable of improving Sabah while encouraging resentment toward the government and its rivals.
Cheoh urged political leaders to respect voters’ choices instead of fuelling anger during the campaign.
He said many young people simply want to hear practical solutions rather than rhetoric that pits communities against one another.
Moyog Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (PGRS) Youth Chief Lee Ka Lik echoed the concern, saying it was irresponsible for any party to spread anger out of political desperation.
Lee warned that hostile speeches could normalise aggression among impressionable youths.
He said such messages risk distorting young voters’ understanding of healthy political debate by framing opponents as enemies.
Lee added that this could weaken social cohesion over time as mistrust and conflict take root.
Both youth leaders said other parties appear more focused on presenting their plans and policies, offering young voters a more constructive reference point.
They said the concerns highlight wider unease about the long-term impact of hostile political messaging on Sabah’s youth as the state prepares for a crucial election.
