Kuala Lumpur: Barisan Nasional (BN) will only cooperate with parties that share the same goals of developing the country and uniting the people, said its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid, who is also UMNO president, explained that while BN has already decided to collaborate with Pakatan Harapan (PH) for the upcoming 17th Sabah State Election, it remains open to partnerships with other parties that align with its objectives.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted the importance of cautious collaboration, stating, “We are never completely closed off, but we should not open our doors too wide because there are wolves in sheep’s clothing trying to enter and destroy our home.” He made these remarks while officiating the Gerak17 UMNO programme for the Kemabong state constituency, an event also attended by Sabah BN chairman Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin.

Ahmad Zahid further noted the global political shift towards coalition governments, pointing out that in 77 countries, no single party has managed to form a dominant government independently. “The best option is cooperation between BN, PH and like-minded parties. This is necessary because we must not be greedy for power. we must be confident in sharing power for unity, harmony, and political consensus, and that is the best way forward for us,” he asserted.

He also called on all UMNO divisions in Sabah to support each other in their efforts to secure victory for their candidates in the Sabah polls, emphasizing the need for unity and collaborative groundwork.