Kota kinabalu: Campaigners must not underestimate the mindset and political maturity of voters in the 17th Sabah State Election, as the electorate is no longer easily swayed by propaganda that brings no tangible benefit to their constituencies, said Johor PKR chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zaliha, who is also Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), stated that voters in Sabah have reached a level of political discernment that demands sincerity, accountability, and genuine development agendas from all contesting parties. She emphasized that ground sentiment shows that Sabahans are increasingly receptive to the Unity Government concept, despite repeated attempts by several outside parties to discredit the federal leadership.
Dr Zaliha highlighted the presence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in several constituencies where Pakatan Harapan candidates are contesting, noting that it has been met with overwhelming support. She asserted that this demonstrates Sabah voters’ openness to federal leaders and their ability to judge issues based on facts, rather than sentiments played by outsiders.
She advised certain quarters to stop capitalizing on the 40 per cent revenue provision issue, as the Prime Minister had clearly stated there would be no appeal from the federal government on the matter. Discussions on resolving the issue have already commenced between the federal government and the Sabah State Secretary, and are being handled through a structured process rather than political rhetoric.
Dr Zaliha added that Sabah’s development must move in tandem with the national agenda to ensure long-term progress, economic inclusivity, and infrastructure enhancement for the state. She stressed that to achieve this, the good relationship between the state and federal governments must be strengthened, as Sabah deserves development aligned with national growth, and cooperation between both levels of government is essential.
Dr Zaliha concluded by stating that the evolving mindset of Sabah’s electorate is a strong indicator that voters now prioritize stability, policy clarity, and leadership that can deliver improvements to their daily lives.