PETALING JAYA, May 16, 2025 – Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s dismissal of the “Sabah for Sabahans” sentiment as “divisive” could cost the party votes in the upcoming Sabah state election, according to political analyst James Chin from the University of Tasmania. Zahid’s call for national unity over local identity has stirred controversy, potentially alienating Sabahans still frustrated by historical grievances, particularly the issue of undocumented migrants.
Chin pointed to lingering anger over the “pendatang tanpa izin” (PTI) issue, linked to Umno’s time in power under Barisan Nasional. A 2012 royal commission revealed a “clandestine exercise” involving senior National Registration Department officers in Sabah issuing identification documents to illegal immigrants for political gain. “Zahid should be the last person to talk about Sabah identity,” Chin told FMT, warning that his comments could inflame voters who associate Umno with these past controversies.
The “Sabah for Sabahans” slogan, tied to demands for greater state autonomy over immigration, resources, and development, remains a powerful rallying cry in Sabah. Zahid’s rejection of it, made during a speech on Monday, urged Sabah to align with Putrajaya for development, but critics argue it dismisses legitimate local aspirations.
However, not all analysts agree on the impact. Awang Azman Pawi from Universiti Malaya defended Zahid, suggesting his remarks aim to integrate Sabah into the national agenda without erasing its identity. “Sabahans understand political instability cuts across all parties, not just Umno,” he said, referencing past defections by local parties. Azman framed Zahid’s approach as inclusive, aimed at rebuilding trust.
Similarly, Oh Ei Sun, principal adviser at Pacific Research Centre, downplayed the electoral fallout, arguing that Sabah voters prioritize infrastructure and development over slogans. “An inclusive government respecting Sabah’s rights can still win support,” he said.
As state polls loom, Zahid’s comments highlight the delicate balance Umno must strike between promoting national unity and respecting Sabah’s unique identity. With historical grievances still raw, the party risks losing ground if voters perceive its stance as dismissive of local sentiment.
