Kota kinabalu: Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) candidate for the Silam state seat, Abdul Halim Sidek Gulam Hassan, has withdrawn from contesting in the 17th Sabah State Election. Sabah PKR chairman Datuk Mustapha Sakmud stated that the coalition respects Abdul Halim’s decision, emphasizing that it was made independently without any external pressure.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mustapha highlighted that Abdul Halim’s decision was made responsibly after considering various factors, including maintaining goodwill and harmony among PH component parties and political partners in Sabah. Mustapha emphasized that Sabah PKR remains committed to political cooperation and stability in the state.

Mustapha further mentioned that despite Abdul Halim’s withdrawal, he has pledged to continue serving the people of Silam and Lahad Datu in any capacity possible. He urged PH members and supporters in Silam and Lahad Datu to remain calm, stay focused, and strengthen unity for the coalition’s success.

With Abdul Halim’s withdrawal, PH will now contest 21 state seats. The Election Commission has set November 25 for early voting and November 29 for polling.