Kota Kinabalu: Opposition Warisan said it respected the decision of voters in Kinabatangan and Lamag in the by-elections and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to remain a credible local alternative for Sabah.
Warisan Secretary General Datuk Loretto Padua Jr said by-elections differ from general elections and were influenced by many factors, but the party views the outcome as part of a “longer democratic journey with an opportunity to reflect, learn and continue engaging with the people.
“What matters to us is the continued growth in support for Warisan and the increasing understanding of our struggle as a Sabah-based party committed to unity beyond race and religion,” he said in a statement, Monday.
Loretto said as a local party, Warisan remained focused on sustained grassroots involvement, maintaining a consistent presence beyond election periods, and addressing the everyday concerns of the people.
“Political progress is built over time, and Warisan remains committed to being a credible local alternative for Sabah,” he added.
Barisan Nasional’s Mohd Kurniawan Naim Moktar retained the Kinabatangan parliament seat by a super majority of 14,214 votes after securing 19,852 votes to defeat Saddi Abdu Rahman of Warisan (5,638 votes) and independent candidate Goldam Hamid (946 votes).
For the Lamag state seat, Mohd Ismail Ayob @ Miha of Barisan posted a 5,681-vote majority after securing 7,269 votes against Mazliwati Abdul Malek Chua of Warisan, who garnered 1,588 votes in a straight fight in the by-election held on Saturday (Jan 24).
The two seats were left vacant following the death of Sabah Umno Chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin on Dec 5.
